Education Review abstracts

Vol. 24 No. 1, 2011

A New Vision for Education

Baffled at a bookcase: Alan Bennett returns to the library

Alan Bennett, playwright, screenwriter, actor, author and campaigner against library closures.

Abstract: In this article the writer Alan Bennett describes the role that public libraries played in shaping his life and the debt that he owes them. Although they are currently threatened by closures, cuts and the threat of privatisation, the author argues that children today have exactly the same need for, and as much to gain from, public libraries.

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The role of schools in society: A future vision of education

Karen Robinson, NUT Head of Education and Equalities.

Abstract: This article considers the basis on which education policy is formulated and its relationship with wider society. It argues that education should be seen as a public good and questions the direction of travel for some key aspects of current Government initiatives. The author concludes that education should be freed from political interference if it is to offer equality of opportunity for all children and young people.

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Soaring systems

Linda Darling-Hammond, the Charles E. Ducommun Professor of Education at Stanford University, co-director of the Stanford Center of Opportunity Policy in Education and the founding director of the School Redesign Network.

Abstract: Despite policies aimed at improving educational performance in the United States, disparities in the school system remain entrenched and high school graduation rates are static and low compared to those of other developed nations. This contrasts dramatically with sustained and equitable improvement in other countries. In her article Linda Darling-Hammond draws out the achievements of Korea, Singapore and Finland where education policies are characterised by equitable funding, a shared curriculum and investment in quality teaching. She argues that in order to secure individual and societal success, education policy should be focused on reducing the opportunity gap and improving access to a rich, challenging curriculum delivered by valued and highly trained teachers.

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The new 'crisis of opportunity' for young people: Why we need a national rescue plan

Ann Hodgson and Ken Spours, Professors of Education and Co-Directors of the Centre for 14+ Research and Innovation at the Institute of Education, University of London.

Abstract: In this article the authors argue that the current economic context, together with government policies for 14+ education and training, have led to an unprecedented crisis of opportunity for young people. Drawing on the vision and principles of ‘Education for the Good Society’, they lay out the dimensions of an urgent national rescue plan for young people.

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Teacher education: Is the glass half-full?

Jean Laight, Senior Lecturer at Leeds Metropolitan University and Course Leader for the Early
Childhood Education, BA Hons degree.

Abstract: This article examines some of the main developments in teaching and the impact they might have on the future of teacher education. The author argues that many of the current initiatives are not necessarily new or the right way to attract teachers to the profession. She explains how expertise in practitioner research and reflective practice could empower the teachers of tomorrow, and that the re-emerging practice of child-initiated learning in early years settings might be the key to innovative teaching and learning in the future.

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The future is inclusive

Nigel Utton, Head Teacher, Union Activist, Vice Chair of Kent Primary Head Teachers, teacher of Re-evaluation Counselling and Chair of Heading for Inclusion.

Abstract: In this article Nigel Utton offers a critique of current Government policy which he believes is leading to greater social divisions. He argues passionately for a new compulsory and inclusive state education system, the main purpose of which is the creation of participatory, self-regulated, democratic world citizens who are driven by a deep rooted moral purpose.

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Teaching out prejudice – celebrating equality

Co-chairs of LGBT History Month and Schools OUT, Tony Fenwick, an English teacher in Hertfordshire; and Sue Sanders, CHRYSALIS founder, member of Southwark Anti Homophobia Forum, and of the LGBT Advisory Group to the Metropolitan Police.

Abstract: In this article the authors examine the potential of the classroom as an agency for change rather than a seat of conformity. They question why some schools are not safe spaces for their communities and look at former and current successes and failures. Addressing The Equality Act and other drivers for change, they argue for a new classroom that eliminates prejudice by celebrating equality and diversity in an inclusive environment. They believe that the struggle for LGBT equality is everyone’s struggle for equality. The new classroom will take on that struggle by making LGBT people visible, usual and vital.

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A young teacher’s view of the profession

Usman Baig-Ali is a primary school teacher and Vice President of Manchester Teachers’ Association.

Abstract: In this article young teacher Usman Baig-Ali explains why, despite all the challenges of teaching, and the particular pressures facing young teachers, he is proud to be a member of the teaching profession.

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Urban classroom culture

Roxy Harris, Senior lecturer in the Department of Education and Professional Studies at King’s College London, author of New Ethnicities and Language Use.

Abstract: This article describes research that is relatively unusual in that it is based on a careful recording of the everyday classroom life of London comprehensive school students and teachers, complemented by the detailed reflections of teachers themselves on these scenarios. This has produced a teacher training and CPD publication.

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