Universal Standards or Habits of Mind?

There were two things from Bridging Differences that struck me this week, and made me consider my own beliefs. The first related to national standards:

...it is hard for many sensible people to understand why there should be 50 different state standards in mathematics, biology, chemistry, even American history. Isn’t mathematics the same in Oregon as in Virginia? Why should every state have its own version of chemistry? It is somewhat odd that we expect our students to participate in international assessments when state standards are so disparate.Of course, the issues become less certain and more subjective when we turn to American history or world history, yet the questions—if not the answers—have a certain undeniable similarity. We do want all American students to be prepared to discuss the causes and consequences of the American Revolution, the Civil War, and the world wars. We do hope that they can reflect on issues involved in the development of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights (10/7/08)

Since the blog is a dialogue, a rebuttal came carrying this quote:

Why require that all graduates (ideally all citizens?) understand (agree on?) the causes of the Civil War, WW I…..et al as you suggest? Ditto for chemistry, calculus, etc.? Probably we can agree quickly about basic literacy (at a 6th grade level—after that, it’s debatable), and arithmetic/measurement? Both of which were traditionally part of a pre-academic course of study. Personally? I’d like evidence that they can exercise the “five habits of mind” in assorted ways, that suggest their understanding of the nature of science, history, math, literature, the arts—but not any particular coverage.

I often find myself waffling in my beliefs regarding particular topics and ideas. I can see both points, but never necessarily take a stand. I think we should have consistent standards, particularly around reading, writing, and math. I'm not sure working to draft 50 different standards is useful or efficient. Duplication 50 fold?

Alas I've come to grips with that fact that the latter quotation is where I stake my flag. The ability to know facts and information is fantastic but isn't enough, in my eye, to be a positive agent of change in our society (which is my belief about the purpose of schooling). You need to be able to understand and utilize that information. I believe that knowledge is what you learn through the practice of these skills, and habits, that are integral to life. Simply knowing facts is great for Jeopardy, but what about for tackling ways to create a neighborhood association, or help stop global warming? We need the tools so that we can act in concert with the great wealth of knowledge about our country. Another resource that would be useful is The Foundation for Critical Thinking.