I think there is a lot in this post from Michelle Martin on How School Screws Things Up For Real Life.
I remember a girlfriend, some years ago, who did well in school and at University but was then floundered in the "real world".
I recall her saying that when she was in the education system, she was happy, she had her goals and schedule set for her.
She knew exactly what to do be successful - study hard and pass the exams. She did this well.
But then on leaving University and entering the real world, there was no one to set goals for her and she do not know what to do or where to start. She was lost.
"The mind is a fire to be kindled, not a vessel to be filled. ~Plutarch"
