This new book, from internationally renowned education scholar Pasi Sahlberg and his colleagues, focuses on some of the most controversial issues in contemporary education reform around the world. The authors devote a chapter to each of these "hard questions":
- Does parental choice improve education systems?
- Is there a future for teacher unions?
- What is the right answer to the standardized testing question?
- Can schools prepare children for the 21st-century workplace?
- Will technology save schools?
- Can anyone be a teacher?
- Should higher education be for the public good?
- What knowledge and skills should an educator have?
Each educational change question sheds much-needed light on today's large-scale education policies and related reforms around the world. The authors focus on what makes each question globally significant, what we know from international research, and what can be inferred from benchmark evidence. The final chapter offers a model for policymakers with implications for teaching, learning, and schooling overall.
Book Features:
- An in-depth look at the most contentious areas of contemporary education reform.
- Concrete examples from across the globe.
- Commentary from key experts, authorities, and organizations.
- A consistent, accessible organization that will appeal to faculty and students.
- Lessons learned that illuminate a good way forward to improve the educational experience of all students.
Industry Reviews
In Hard Questions on Global Educational Change, Sahlberg, Hasak, and Rodriguez have provided a needed reminder that 21st Century education systems should be viewed within an international context, and that such systems will face ever changing hard questions. This reminder is particularly important for education students who wish to become change-makers . . . provides an excellent introduction to the preparation and encouragement of both undergraduate and graduate education students to become 21st Century changemakers.- Education Review / Resenas Educativas;
""This is an impressive, engaging book about hard questions and ideas with impact. It tackles the questions and ideas that matter to young scholars, educational entrepreneurs, and future policymakers on a global scale. If you care about the impacts of technology, testing, and teacher education designs, then this book will stretch your thinking and challenge your assumptions.""- Andy Hargreaves, Brennan Chair, Lynch School of Education, Boston College;
""Hard Questions on Global Educational Change provides readers with smart answers to the most hitherto intractable challenges for our schools and societies. This is a must-read volume with fascinating case studies that open up our imagination and provide clues for the most sustainable pathways forward for educators in the years to come."- Dennis Shirley, Lynch School of Education, Boston College;
""Enlightening chapters with an international perspective, for educators and teacher educators alike. Highly recommended.""- David C. Berliner, bestselling author and Regents' Professor Emeritus of Education at Arizona State University;
""Pasi once again demonstrates why he is considered a world leader in the global education community. The insights contained in this book regarding public education and the possibilities for meaningful system change are valuable to active teachers, administrators, district leaders, and government. Hard Question on Global Education Change gives readers strategies and influences to consider when looking toward the future of public education. This book really does answer the question, is there a better way?""- Mark Ramsankar, president elect, Canadian Teachers' Federation;
"Hard Questions on Global Educational Change is a must-read for current and aspiring changemakers. Presented with clarity and originality, the authors examine major educational change questions where there are no single answers or simple solutions. Pasi Sahlberg and co-authors demonstrate the importance of changemakers coping with complex issues, understanding global contexts, and communicating persuasively to influence educational improvement."- Carol Campbell, associate professor, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, University of Toronto
