Instead of constantly trying to finish schoolwork on time, many students find it intellectually fulfilling to take a break from their studies. This can be a time for individuals to really relax and cool down before they continue engaging in their homework again. It can definitely be a time for an individual to watch an interesting TED talk. I think many people have caught onto the fact that TED talks are not just some regular college lecture. They are short videos of mind-blowing topics and include speakers who have dealt with so many experiences in their lifetime. Most importantly, these talks provide curious people with a new quest for knowledge, allowing them to gain a new perspective on life. Here are the Top best education TED talks to watch throughout your college semester.

1. Every Kid Needs A Champion, Rita Pierson

In order for students to be fully engaged within the classroom, Pierson argues that it is important for educators to connect with them on a deep, personal level. There should not be a distant relationship between teacher and student, but rather, a close bond so the student has the motivation to learn more. Only then will they have the motivation to continue trying their best in school.

2. Teaching Arts and Science Together

It is important for students to be taught the expertise of arts and science as one. It should not be taught separately but actually in unison. Mae Jemison talks about why this is important in developing a broad-minded thinker in the classroom. When art and science are taught through one sole subject, it can really develop the mind to think more critically and in new perspectives.

3. Do Schools Kill Creativity?

Sir Ken Robinson elaborately explains how the modern education system is killing creativity in students. He talks about how as we get older, the childlike curiosity to learn new things and creativity to develop new ideas is crushed because we have to fit into a box. He argues that instead of preparing students for university entrance exams, we should be preparing them for the future.

4. Grit: the power of passion and perseverance

Psychologist Angela Lee Duckworth gives a spirited, empowering talk about how a student’s intelligence quotient (IQ) is not the sole determinate of success. While teaching math to seventh graders, the ones who had the indomitable perseverance and grit were able to succeed more than the ones who were naturally smart. This talk really hits home on how hard work does do well for a person.

5. How to get better at the things you care about

While this talk does not entirely focus on education, it is a wonderful, eye-opening account of how to become better at whatever endeavors you have in life. This can definitely be relatable to school because there are definitely times when we complete our work, but never out our full heart and soul into it. Eduardo Briceno provides a simple solution to approach situations in a positive, determined way.