For their first couple years of schooling, our grandchildren learned in kindergarten to write in cursive. They then moved and went to a public school where they were NOT allowed to use cursive, print only. Now schoolwork needs to be done on a computer before turning it in. Took youngest grandson (highschool)to the library for some research work. I went to the card file and he went to the librarian for directions on how to find books on his subject matter. I told her not to tell him. We went back to the cardfile and went through the dewy decimal system. My tax dollars at work. Makes me want to cry sometimes.

Here is my take. Many people are not taught properly or by their elders. Many elders may not understand the "new education." As for me, my mother and father could not afford to send me to college. I had to go out and get a job. I was waiting tables. It was back breaking work. I also did need to learn a few things. How to be pleasant, courteous and considerate. You betcha' I made mistakes along the way. I was fortunate to pay attention to what was being taught. My parents taught me stupid things that I'm grateful for now. Tying my shoe laces, reading a clock, writing cursive, and making change. My parents were interested in what I was learning in college and made the best for what it was. Now that my children are in college, my wife and I take a interest in their lives. Sure we are interested in who they are dating but my wife and I are routinely asking them what is going on in college.
I think that parents become so wrapped up in their own lives that they forget their children's education should be top on their list.

I remember a song by Harry Chapin that was titled, "A Cat's in The Cradle." Perhaps we need to hear it again.
I tried to put the link here but I came up empty. I'm sorry!