In his TEDx talk “Hackschooling Makes Me Happy,” Logan LaPlante advocates for a personalized, unconventional approach to education that prioritizes happiness and well-being. LaPlante argues that traditional education often focuses too much on preparing students for careers, neglecting the essential aspects of personal fulfillment and health. He proposes “hackschooling,” a flexible and creative method of learning tailored to individual interests and needs.LaPlante critiques the conventional education system for not integrating happiness and health into its curriculum. Instead of following a rigid school system, he embraces a mix of activities and practices that contribute to his overall well-being. He highlights Dr. Roger Walsh’s “Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes” (TLCs), which include exercise, diet, time in nature, and community service, as key components of his education.By choosing experiences that align with his passions—such as skiing, writing, and community involvement—LaPlante creates a learning environment that fosters happiness and personal growth. He contrasts this with the traditional focus on preparing for a job, emphasizing that education should also be about living a fulfilling life.LaPlante’s approach to “hackschooling” exemplifies how students can take control of their own education, blending academic subjects with personal interests and real-world experiences to create a more engaging and meaningful learning journey.
