The present structure of rewards in high schools produces a response on the part of an adolescent social system which effectively impedes the process of education.
James S. ColemanA child's learning is a function more of the characteristics of his classmates than those of the teacher.
James S. ColemanIf we refuse to accept as inevitable the irresponsibility and educational unconcern of the adolescent culture, then this poses a serious challenge.
James S. ColemanIt is clear from all these data that the interests of teenagers are not focused around studies, and that scholastic achievement is at most of minor importance in giving status or prestige to an adolescent in the eyes of other adolescents.
James S. Coleman