Transforming America's Schools

📖 The Scoop

This book argues that schools are doing a better job than is commonly portrayed by the media and various commission reports. However, it cautions that schools must move beyond incremental improvements. One need not assume school failure to propose school reform. Chapter 1 examines limitations of the research that has portrayed a national educational crisis, especially the report, "A Nation at Risk" (1983). The perceptions of a troubled educational system are fueled by the latest focus on economic threats, the media, and educators. Chapter 2 shows that previous examinations of schools have failed to take into account many of the subtleties in the data. It also argues that the social context in which schools function is declining, which is overlooked by many reports. Therefore, an objective systemic approach is needed to understand schools and the environment in which they operate. Chapter 3 gives further reasons for using a systems approach. The remaining eight chapters are devoted to: the changing concepts of learning theory; applying a consumer approach to setting standards; adopting authentic assessment; examining the problems with school choice; providing equitable funding; defining the system and its goals; providing comprehensive programs to ensure student readiness; and preparing for the impact of technology on education. Thirteen figures are included. Each chapter contains references. (LMI)

Genre: Education / Administration / General (fancy, right?)