Technology:
* Limited Computer Access: While computers were starting to appear in schools, they were far from ubiquitous. Many schools had only a computer lab with a limited number of machines, often older models. Personal computers were a rarity in classrooms and homes. The internet, as we know it, was in its infancy, and widespread access was non-existent in schools.
* Typewriters and Mimeographs: Typewriters were common for administrative tasks and some classroom activities. Mimeograph machines were still used for duplicating worksheets and handouts.
* No Smartboards or Projectors: Chalkboards and overhead projectors were the primary tools for presenting information.
Curriculum and Pedagogy:
* Emphasis on Rote Learning: Memorization and standardized testing were often prioritized over critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
* Traditional Classroom Structure: The traditional teacher-centered classroom with rows of desks was the norm. Collaborative learning and differentiated instruction were less common.
* Less Focus on Diversity and Inclusion: While the Civil Rights Movement had made strides, issues of diversity and inclusion were not as centrally addressed in the curriculum or school culture as they are today.
Social Aspects:
* Dress Codes: Dress codes were generally stricter than in many schools today, often prohibiting things like shorts, sleeveless shirts, or certain types of jewelry.
* Discipline: Discipline was often stricter, with corporal punishment still legal and practiced in some schools. Suspension and expulsion were more common.
* Extracurricular Activities: Extracurricular activities, such as sports, clubs, and music programs, were important parts of school life, although participation rates might have varied based on school and community resources.
Other Aspects:
* Safety Concerns: While school shootings were less frequent than today, school safety was still a concern, often focusing on issues like bullying and vandalism.
* Funding: School funding varied greatly depending on location and local tax bases. Some schools had more resources than others.
It's important to remember that this is a generalization. Schools in affluent suburban areas likely had more resources and more advanced technology than those in rural or low-income urban areas. The educational experience in 1990 was diverse and shaped by numerous factors.