Less Algorithm, More Passion
Teens need opportunities to take responsibility, to prove themselves and to reflect on who they are as well as who they want to become. Rather than placing our teens in front of screens where we leave their imagination to the algorithm, we need to inspire them, open their eyes to the world, and provide meaningful challenges through bildung. Teens are ready for big dreams, grand ideas, lofty ideals and a cause to fight for. When they have found it, their spirit wakes up and life gets a purpose.
Before this can happen, though, educators, administrators, and ‘the system’ need to be ready for it.
Target Audience
Educators, administrators etc. in junior high, high schools, colleges, community colleges, and other forms of youth education.
For an actual program for the young people themselves, go here.
| Format | Keynote | Workshop | Course | Collaboration |
| Time | 1-2 hrs | 1-3 days | n/a | Customized |
Backdrop: Mental Health Crisis of the 21st Century Teenager
We’re facing a mental health crisis that particularly affects teenagers. Smart phones take part of the blame, but maybe we have made things worse by the way we educate? Postmodern education has ruined the pursuit of what is to be good, true, beautiful and deep.
Teenagers need these moral and cultural frameworks for their many new feelings. They also need grand narratives that allow them to hold up an existential mirror so they can explore what it means to be an adult.
2020-2021 we were involved in the Erasmus+ project BILDUNG where we produced the booklet What is Bildung? Here, Lene Rachel Andersen explores adult meaning-making and bildung, and how education can contribute to this personal growth.
Below you will find a video from Lene’s visit to North Seattle College in February, 2024, where she meets with some of the students and ends up practicing bildung on the spot at 25:50 .
Testimonials
Attending the European Bildung Day 2024 was an incredibly enriching experience for me. The event provided deep insights into the concept of Bildung and its underlying principles, broadening my understanding significantly. Beyond the excellent learning opportunities, I also had the chance to connect with many remarkable individuals, making the experience both intellectually and personally fulfilling. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this event..
Martijn van Ginneken
Student of business administration, The Netherlands
The European Bildung Day seemed like a very elaborate and intricate organization/event, yet it felt very personal and “down-to-earth”. Songs and jokes helped me personally to change my perspective from an outsider to part of the group..
Lyuba V. Nicheva
Student of Political Science at Leiden University, from Bulgaria