In the US, the value of liberal arts is in question as neo-liberal reformers push for a more instrumentalist form of higher education. Older traditions of worker education, however, along with more recent university-based labour studies programs, offer a compelling counter-narrative concerning the social and political purpose of higher education.…

Due to the political context and the restrictions placed on general freedoms and trade union activities, workers' education in Palestine remained informal and largely reliant on oral memory until the early 1990s. For decades, it was an integral part of political education. Workers' education only became a stand-alone field after the…

This article underscores the need for a profound transformation in the training processes of future teachers, and thereby in teaching practices. The text first presents various grounds for this transformation, citing social, economic-political, teleological, axiological, epistemological, and psychological factors. It then focuses on teacher…

Humanity delights in spinning conceptual models of the world. These models, in turn, mirror their respective root metaphors. Three root metaphors--spiritual, organic, and mechanical--have dominated western thought. The spiritual metaphor runs from Plato, through Hegel, and connects with Montessori. The organic metaphor extends from Aristotle,…

A broader view of literacy has emerged as part of the larger debate about educational reform across the globe. Many now argue that availing children with additional skills in technological and media literacy will foster creativity, motivate youth, and improve their economic opportunities while increasing the core of high skilled labourers…

The authors observe that students in school who exhibit challenging behaviours are given labels such as "severe behaviour," "troubled," or "violent" and that these negative labels have repercussions on students. School administrators also employ zero tolerance policies without addressing the root causes of negative behaviour. Using students'…

This paper argues that recent Charter decisions concerning the off duty expressive conduct of teachers have involved a narrow or "orthodox" interpretation of the reasonable limits on such expression. The author illustrates what he describes as a "messy area" by taking us through the controversial and well-known examples of Shewan and Shewan; the…

Explores the nature of critical thinking through a discussion on the use of logic, the role of the critical spirit, dialogical reasoning, assessment of criteria, the relationship of content, and the relationship of caring and connections with criticism. Includes references. (CMK)

Begins by discussing the increasingly diverse and rapidly transforming structures and purposes of Chinese secondary schooling. Argues that increased diversity is a result of changing social needs, increased parental and student choice, and alternative teaching methods. Warns that inequities in school environments and teacher qualifications are…

Offers a critical discussion on the issue of educational standards by (1) clarifying issues surrounding educational standards, (2) critically examining the assumptions underlying popular discourse about standards, and (3) offering and arguing for an alternate perspective based on democratic ideals. Discusses the impact of this on classroom…

Compares and contrasts two vastly different approaches to music education instruction among undergraduate elementary and music teacher education students. Identifies these approaches as "making musicians" versus "being a role model." Examines these differences manifested in the identity, function, and role of the teachers. Discusses implications…

Considers the difficulties experienced by the East German School system adjusting to a more progressive educational philosophy. Specifically, contrasts the traditional East German geography instruction (focused solely on physical geography) with the West German emphasis on social issues and problem solving. Many East German instructors distrust…

The concentration of power and the potential for abuse inherent in modern technology mandates the development of a personal and socially responsible ethic. The development and examination of this ethic should be reflected and integrated throughout social studies instruction. Historical examples of traditional virtues (sobriety, thrift, industry)…

Argues for a dialog between reductionist (task analysis and specific skill training) and holistic (constructing new knowledge through experience) philosophies in special education. Claims exclusive adherence to either approach shortchanges special education students. Discusses specific strengths and weaknesses of both philosophies. (MJP)

Examines the nature of the relationship between student teachers and associate teachers through a collaborative research project. The study utilized interviews, observations, and journal entries to determine positive and negative aspects. Benefits included new ideas, energetic presentations, and relief time for the teacher. Drawbacks included…