I believe letting middle school children chose only what they want to study is not a good idea. A few children would chose all computer classes or only art or only classes in a specific area. Although it is important for children to be comfortable with computers and have an appreciation of art, it is also important that they can speak and write, understand math concepts, cook themselves basic meals, sew on a button, have a general understanding of the world around them, be able to understand basic financial concepts and have at least an elementary knowledge in other areas. Even most colleges require an assortment of subjects be introduced. How do we know we don't like a subject or won't be good in a field unless we have at least been introduced to it? Once we have been exposed to a variety of areas, we will be better able to choose a field. Each of us needs to have enough information in enough fields to be self sustaining and hopefully add value to our world.