Contested Classrooms. Education Globalization and Democracy in Alberta

Alberta Stands as a model of radical education reform in Canada. Standardized exams, school accountability, lean budgets, and 'market' choice are rapidly transforming the nature of education in the province. But reform is not necessarily right or good, especially if undertaken without the consultation of those most affected by it. Contested Classrooms looks at Alberta's program of education reform within the larger context of globalization. Harrison and Kachur bring together a range of analysis of the sweeping changes to Alberta's public education system. Contributors examine the issues from many angles: from the perspectives of teacher, principals, parents, students, and the community at large. They also pose some important questions. In particular, what is the purpose of education? Whose interests does it serve? This book looks at the historical changes in education, the politics of educational change in Alberta, and the real out comes of re-organizing Alberta's schools. The editors call passionately for patient debate and discussion, before the stakes of this contest get too high. Contested Classrooms is and essential volume for parents, teachers, and anyone concerned about the future of education.-Amazon.ca