I’m keen to learn about the evolution of education policy in the U.S. and how it stands in contrast to more capitalistic systems seen in other sectors like housing or healthcare. I’m not starting a political debate; I just want to deepen my understanding of this topic.
Check out ‘Tinkering Towards Utopia’ by Tyack & Cuban, ‘Ghosts of the Schoolyard’ by Ewing, ‘Schoolhouse Burning’ by Black, and ‘Public Education: Defending a Cornerstone of Democracy’ edited by Berliner & Hermann. Interestingly, the U.S. education system does incorporate capitalist ideals.
@ScholarlySpark
The influence of capitalism is evident in public education too, especially if you consider standardized testing, textbook production, and sports programs.
LearningFacilitator4 said:
@ScholarlySpark
The influence of capitalism is evident in public education too, especially if you consider standardized testing, textbook production, and sports programs.
Exactly, that’s what I was pointing out. Thanks for elaborating on those aspects.
LearningFacilitator4 said:
@ScholarlySpark
My mistake, I responded in the wrong thread.
No worries, it happens!
It’s important to understand the Prussian origins of the U.S. educational system. Check out Fichte’s addresses to the German nation for more insights.
The Report of the Committee of Ten is a foundational document you might find enlightening. It still resonates in the structure of modern education.
For a historical contrast, consider looking into the trivium and quadrivium, which were the basis of classical education.
Though not books, consider how capitalism permeates K-12 education in the U.S. through textbook vendors, ed-tech companies, and even school lunch providers.
‘Fertilizer, Pills, and Magnetic Strips’ offers a critical look at the commodification of education. It’s a good starting point.
I recommend ‘An Elusive Science’ by Ellen Condliffe Lagemann, ‘Schooling in Capitalist America’ by Bowles and Gintis, and ‘Reign of Error’ by Diane Ravitch. These books provide a comprehensive view of the educational landscape and its capitalist influences.
Exploring textbooks used in teacher training programs can be insightful. They cover a broad spectrum of topics from educational history to specific pedagogical strategies and the socio-political contexts influencing them.
Your research might benefit from Dana Goldstein’s ‘The Teacher Wars’ for an overview of teacher-policy history and Cara Fitzpatrick’s ‘The Death of Public Schools’ for perspectives on school choice. Both provide substantial insights into the dynamics of U.S. education policy.
@Alex1
Thanks for the recommendations! ‘The Teacher Wars’ is now on my reading list, and I’ve bookmarked your suggestion on school choice for future reference.
You might also want to explore foundational figures and ideas in education like those from John Dewey, Horace Mann, and others. Their writings and philosophies laid much of the groundwork for contemporary educational practices.
Indeed, the U.S. educational system mirrors capitalist structures, notably in how educational materials and innovations are marketed and implemented. Understanding the philosophy behind educational practices can also offer deep insights.
‘Crescent City Schools’ provides a unique perspective on education in specific regional contexts, which might be of interest.
For a more academic approach, consider looking into scholarly consensus views on education history, which avoid overly ideological stances and provide a balanced perspective.
Don’t miss out on Diane Ravitch’s extensive work. Her books and blog are rich resources for understanding U.S. education policy.