Mr. Dr. Talal Nazim Al-Zuhairi
Observing the superiority of Iraqi children in mental arithmetic competitions among countries with advanced educational systems may seem puzzling at first glance. However, this superiority is not separate from the fact that Iraq has consistently obtained high IQ scores, superior to many of its Arab and foreign counterparts. Reports indicate that Iraq leads the Arab world with an IQ of 89, which is a praiseworthy global average. But although Iraq possesses such talent, it is still far from building a generation of scientists in important disciplines such as physics, chemistry, mathematics, and others. This can be attributed to various factors, including the prevailing educational system in Iraq, which supports indoctrination processes at the expense of deduction and critical thinking processes. The central admission mechanism in the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research also plays a negative role in diminishing the chances of a generation of scientists emerging, in addition to employment trends and family influences that control children’s choices through early education in specific specializations, regardless of the field in which children excel. For example, our central admission system, which is based primarily on students’ general averages rather than proficiency in a particular subject, undermines the process of developing scientific minds, as priority in admission to a scientific discipline such as physics, for example, may be given to a student with an overall average of 85. But he received a grade of 70 in physics, over the student who had an overall grade of 75 but achieved a full grade in that subject. This mechanism perpetuates a cycle in which exceptional talent remains unrecognized and underutilized. Moreover, societal pressures often dictate career preferences, pushing students away from fields they are passionate about and toward those that promise better job prospects. This utilitarian approach to education combined with family expectations reduces the likelihood of scientific talent being nurtured outside traditional career paths such as medicine. Understanding different individual abilities is crucial, and while some excel at memory and rote memorization, others possess superior analytical and deductive abilities, traits that often indicate future scientific success in various disciplines. To confront these challenges, educational policy makers must adopt strategies that prioritize the recognition and development of talent and through the recognition and inclusion of diverse abilities. Promoting a culture of academic excellence and aligning educational priorities with national development goals. The Iraqi educational system can play a pivotal role in raising a generation of scholars prepared to make contributions and achievements of importance to society if a series of reforms are implemented in the educational system, as follows:
• Reviewing the central admission system by enabling students to choose scientific specializations that suit their talents.
• Moving away from rote-based teaching and encouraging students to analyze information, ask questions, and develop independent thinking processes. This can be achieved through methods such as inquiry-based learning, where students actively search for problems to provide logical solutions to them.
• Making learning engaging and intriguing to students This can include incorporating hands-on activities, project-based learning and exploring real-world applications of knowledge.
• Providing opportunities for students to delve deeper into topics that interest them. This can include developing electives, research programs, and access to mentors who can guide their intellectual pursuits.
• Providing students with the necessary tools to conduct research effectively. By teaching them how to find reliable sources, analyze data, and form well-supported arguments. Libraries with strong digital resources and research methodology courses can be valuable tools.
• Encourage teamwork and communication skills. Researchers often collaborate and share knowledge. Group projects, discussions and presentations can provide practice in these areas.
• Ensure a strong understanding of basic concepts in mathematics, science, language arts, and history. These essential skills are essential building blocks for further academic exploration.
• Develop programs that recognize and support gifted students through the implementation of advanced placement courses, mentorship opportunities, and participation in academic competitions.
• Attracting and retaining motivated and skilled professors who can inspire and guide students by providing continuing professional development opportunities for teachers.
very important.
• Creating a learning environment that values curiosity, exploration, and intellectual risk-taking, which means fostering a safe space in which students feel comfortable asking questions and making mistakes. In conclusion, by implementing these strategies, the educational system can empower students to become lifelong learners, critical thinkers, and the next generation of scholars who will push the frontiers of knowledge.
And innovation.