Full Description
Education has become dominated by testing, standards, interventions, strategies and political policy. Yet while elements such as these are important, Exploring Education and Childhood contends it is childhood - including its sociology and psychology - that is the vital holistic context for teaching and learning.
Written by a team of specialists who bring both experience of classroom teaching, teacher training, and of rigorous research and scholarship, each chapter examines a topic that is of vital importance to teaching and the work of teachers. The book explores examples of educational practice that illuminate contemporary problems and future possibilities for education; develops educational theory to better understand practice and policy; and critically evaluates education policy in the international context. With an emphasis on reflection and deep thinking - something that all the best teachers are able to do - key issues in the book include:
the voice of the child
metacognitive strategies
agency, pedagogy and curriculum
performativity, standards, and school readiness
educational settings and new technology
teacher expertise and agency
diversity and child agency
families, society and school choice.
Illustrated with powerful examples of practice, together with key questions for reflection and further reading, Exploring Education and Childhood challenges education professionals, policy makers, and all peple with an interest in education to envision a new future. It will be essential reading for all student teachers and teachers, and is particular appropriate for Masters-level research, professional studies, Education Studies.
Contents
Childhoods and Contemporary Practices 2. The Child's Voice 3. Children's Thinking 4. Agency, Pedagogy, and the Curriculum 5. High Stakes Assessment, Teachers, and Children 6. Technology and Education 7. Expertise, Knowledge and Pedagogy 8. Language and Culture in Foreign Language Teaching 9. Inclusion or Special Educational Needs? Uncertainty in the 21st Century - 10. Embracing diversity in the classroom: a cross-cultural perspective 11. Families, Society and School Choice 12. Politics, Policy and Teacher Agency
