lee watton:um....soz but how on earth os improving their literacy and numeracy skills gonna top them fro going out onto the streets causing trouble? the Dj and Mc idea in my opinion is really good
Many would question exactly the same about DJ & MC projects!
From the article "The workshops Boris Johnson refers to aren't intended to make young
people become rappers and DJs: they are a means of engaging disengaged
young people in positive activities. Those of us working on the front
line with disadvantaged young people know that secondary schools and
statutory provision are often failing young people, which is why
alternative approaches are becoming increasingly vital."
If its only a 'tool of engagement' it seems valid to question whether the cost of that method of engagement is effective. I don't think that statement illustrates very well how this approach either covers that gap from the 'failing statutory provision' or provides a credible alternative. I've no doubt at all that there are very good examples of how music projects are doing exactly that, but it would be useful to see examples of it so that when those methods are questioned (as people are entitled to do) theres a better response than simply slagging off the education system.
And if you don't see the values of literacy & numeracy ask yourself why parents all over the world in the poorest of communities will give everything they have for the opportunity for their children to get those basic skills.