So I think that Plato is not that far off (at least if I understood his point correctly
). His Allegory of the Cave is kind of weird by nature, but has some pretty good points. I think that we are born with a natural ability to learn, and that we work with our natural abilities and what we are given. Babies would never learn to walk if they were not prompted to do so by example or by motive. When we are learning new things, we are like sponges soaking up the knowledge. Our students are also going to be looking to soak up the things we can help them learn about themselves, the world, and how to function as an individual in a diverse society. Our job is to provide them with as much knowledge, skills, and ideas as possible.
I hope this response makes sense & does not sound crazy.