E-mail provides ability for 'peer review' and editing of assignments whilst word processing programs enables students to creates their own ideas and documents. More sophisticated programs encourage inquiry-based learning where students explore new fields and format solutions in all sorts of creative manners to all sorts of fields. Computer also assists the teacher in that students can work independently at certain programs whilst others receive teacher-based instruction. In many ways, therefore, technology has become part of the school-based reform. (EdWeb.com)
After school programs
After school programs also called 'extra learning opportunities" (ELO) offer students a spectrum of enriching opportunities that go beyond their school day and regular education. Opportunities extend to subjects such as sewing, cooking, carpentry, ballet, drama, athletics, or small business enterprise. These not only indirectly improve student's academic progress but also enhance student's esteem whilst pointing them towards their special skills and enabling them to actualize their talents…...
mlaReferences
NGA Center for Best Practices (n.d.) After school programs and extra learning opportunities. Retrieved on 11/17/2011from:
www.subnet.nga.org/educlear/achievement/afterschool/afterschool_problem.html
EdWeb.com. (n.d.) Education reform and computers. Retrieved on 11/17/2011from:
www.edwebproject.org/edref.html
Education Reforms: Private or Public
United States education system is not at par with general standards of quality education worldwide. The problem lies with our school and college curriculum and lack of sound reforms in the area of education. Though every year, our administration declares that education reforms is at the top of its political agenda, still each year we fail to notice any changes in the school and college education. Not only is our curriculum faulty, we also do not have right degree of private participation in this field which is resulting in deterioration of education especially in state run schools and colleges. For this reason it is important to encourage private initiative in this area because public participation has not only failed to improve the standard of education, it has also resulted in intense public resentment. Many people feel that public funds must not be used to educate selected…...
mlaWorks Cited
Michael A. Fletcher and Neil Irwin Washington Post Staff Writers, Public Reform, Private Windfall?; Educational Firms See Opportunities in Bush Schools Plan., The Washington Post, 08-16-2001, pp A09.
Nancy J. Perry, EDUCATION/SPECIAL REPORT: SCHOOL REFORM: BIG PAIN, LITTLE GAIN, Fortune, 11-29-1993, pp 130.
Education system in the United States
http://usinfo.state.gov/journals/itsv/1297/ijse/ijse1297.pdf.
Education: Education eform
Education eform: Public Education
Education reformers have proposed a number of strategies to help increase teacher effectiveness and overall student performance in public schools. Proposals include, among other things, reducing the level of teacher autonomy, use of testing and standards to evaluate performance, and introduction of charter schools as a way of encouraging public schools to improve their performance. This text examines the arguments put forth by the proponents and critics in each of these three areas.
School eform
School reform is the name given to the various efforts geared at changing public education in the country to focus on outputs (student achievement) as opposed to input. School reformers acknowledge public education as the primary source of K-12 education for the country's young generation. As such, they desire to transform public education to be able o work like a market, that is, an input-output system where accountability creates high stakes for…...
mlaReferences
Freire, P. (2000). Pedagogy of the Oppressed. New York, NY: Bloomsbury.
Goldstein, D. (2014). The Teacher Wars: A History of America's Most Embattled Profession. New York, NY: Knopf Publishing.
Ravitch, D. (2013). Reign of Terror: The Hoax of the Privatization Movement and the Danger of America's Public Schools. New York, NY: Knopf Publishing.
Governor Cuomo and Education Policy
Governor Cuomo strongly supports the establishment of a statewide teacher evaluation system. New York is following the robust example of states like Kentucky that have put teacher evaluation systems in place, and will soon to add principle evaluation systems. Borrowing phraseology from the 1954 Brown v. Board of Education ruling, Cuomo recently asserted that public schools are failing so badly that "the great equalizer that was supposed to be the public education system can now be the great discriminator." Cuomo is putting money where his mouth is since the evaluation system is the key to school districts being able to access an increase in state education aid that has been scheduled. Cuomo has been pressuring the teachers' union and schools in New York City to implement the new standards approved by the State Legislature, including the use of an instructional framework that stipulates criteria for teacher…...
mlaReferences
Cuomo's education proposals draw support, concern. (2011, January). Crains -- New York Business. Retrieved http://www.crainsnewyork.com/article/20130111/EDUCATION/130119970/cuomos-education-proposals-draw-support-concern
Fleisher, L. (2012, July 30). Cuomo plans to veto special-education bill. NY Schools, Wall Street Journal. Retrieved http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10000872396390444860104577559662860322768
Kaplan, T. And Taylor, K. (2012, January 16). Invoking King, Cuomo and Bloomberg stoke fight on teacher review impasse. The New York Times. Retrieve http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/17/nyregion/cuomo-and-bloomberg-on-attack-on-teacher-evaluations.html?_r=0
Seiler, C. (2012, April 30). blueprint for improving schools: Parsons to chair the New NY Education Reform Commission. Transunion.com. Retrieved http://www.timesunion.com/local/article/A-blueprint-for-improving-schools-3522955.php
Responsibility for Failing Schools
Central Falls, Rhode Island came under Obama Administration's "Race to the Top" policy in January 2010 with new district policy to improve the district's low student performance. After months of debate, teacher firings and rehiring, lawsuits, and negotiations, the policy was finally implemented. Questions remain on how effective the new policy will resolve the district's problems.
The Obama Administration's "Race to the Top" policy consists of implementing one of four turnaround models (Rochefort, 2011). The transformational model replaces the principal, strengthens school staff, implements researched-based instruction with new governance and flexibility, and extended learning time. The turnaround model replaces the principal, rehires only 50% of staff, implements researched-based instruction, new governance, and extended learning time. The restart model converts or closes the school and reopens under an effective charter operator or an educational management organization. And the school closure model closes the school and sends students to other…...
mlaBibliography
Alfeld, C. & . (2012). Mature Programs of Study: A Structure for the Transition to College and Career? Internationl Journal of Education Reform 21(2), 119-137, retrieved from http://www.nrccte.org/sites/default/files/external-reports-files/12-008_ijer_v21_no2_fnls_2.pdf .
Butterfield, L. (2013). Letter: Have cries for educational reform been heard? The Statesman Journal, retrieved from http://www.statesmanjournal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/articles?AID=2013311120007 .
Rajala, J. (2003). Regulations for Improving the Academic Achievement of the Disadvantaged. Education Reform, retrieved from http://thefournal.com/Articles/2003/01/01/Education-Reform.aspx?page=1.
Rochefort, D. & . (2011). Holding Teacher Responsible For Fixing Failing Schools: The Battle Over Education Reform in Central Falls, Rhode Island. Washington.
Professional Learning Community"?
Professional learning communities: rticle review
DuFour, R. What is a 'professional learning community?' Educational Leadership, 2004.
popular idea in the field of education today is the need to develop a 'professional learning community' of educators to facilitate the goals of the institution. One of the 'big ideas' of a professional learning community is the responsibility for educators to come together and to determine how students really learn and how to achieve set learning objectives. For example, if a teacher is struggling with providing differentiated instruction to a diverse community of learners, the school can offer her additional support and resources to bolster the performance of her students (DuFour 2004: 1). Creating a professional learning community ensures that there are institutional structures to support learning in a meaningful fashion so that learning is 'easy' and avoiding learning is not an option. Not only educators and administrators but the students…...
mlaA second 'big idea' is the concept of collaboration -- quite simply, when teachers find that particular strategies work, they should share them with their fellow educators. This ensures that teachers are able to learn from one another and that positive techniques are disseminated through the school. However, the article notes that subjective impressions are not enough to validate that particular approaches work: these must be determined through objective instruments. For example, having teachers give the same types of formative assessments enables them to compare what techniques enhanced student retention and which did not (DuFour 2004: 3). Instead of just presenting teachers with state curriculum standards, schools must try to answer the question 'how will we know when each student has learned' (DuFour 2004: 4).
Not all teachers, it should be noted, would necessarily embrace such an approach -- this type of data-driven method of evaluation could force some teachers to have to change their methods, based upon such measurements. This objection might also directly link with the third big idea behind professional learning communities: being results-oriented in a statistical fashion. The 'results-oriented' concept taps into many of the notions behind quality improvement in private enterprise, namely setting specific metrics for student achievement such as decreasing the rate of failures by a specific percentage and increasing the rates by which students pass state exams. This is contrasted with making vague 'goals' such as instituting a great books program or setting objectives in relation to educators, administrators, and program externals. Instead, it is important to ensure that initiatives translate in student success.
Professional learning communities and the growing professionalism of education may not be welcome to all. The article states quite bluntly teachers "must stop assessing their own effectiveness based upon how busy they are" and they must confront "brutal facts" (DuFour 2004: 6). Students likewise may not necessarily enjoy being forced to seek outside assistance when they do not wish to do so. The development of such 'learning communities' means a certain degree of conformity, despite the upbeat tone of the article and this may be welcome to some but not to all.
Evidence-Based Instruction and Intervention
Evidence-Based Instruction & Intervention
The terms evidence-based instruction, research-based instruction, and scientifically based instruction are often used interchangeably. What is the basic meaning of such terms and the approach to instructional practices and interventions advocated in their name?
The terms evidence-based, research-based, and scientifically based are used interchangeably in the field of education. At the most fundamental level, these terms are meant to indicate that formal research has been conducted on a particular methodology, technique, or approach. Generally, an assumption prevails that the research conducted is grounded in a positivist or an empirical tradition that is, by its very nature, a theory building endeavor. The attributes associated with an evidence-based practice include, reliability, validity, trustworthiness, and replicability.
Moreover, there is an implicit understanding that the approach can be generalized to populations outside the original research, and that similar outcomes can be anticipated when the recommended and researched techniques or methods…...
mlaReferences
____. (2014). Focus on Effectiveness [Web]. Retreived http://www.netc.org/focus/strategies/them.php
____. (2014). Evidence-based Practice and Educational. Technology Teacher Tap. [Web]. Retreived http://eduscapes.com/tap/evidence.html
____. (2014). Response to Instruction and Intervention (RTl2) California Department of Education Taking Center Stage -- Act II (TCSII). [Web]. Retrieved http://pubs.cde.ca.gov/tcsii/ch2/responsetointerven.aspx
____. (2014). What is evidence-based reading instruction? International Reading Association. [Web]. Retrieved http://www.reading.org/General/AboutIRA/PositionStatements/EvidencedBasedPosition.aspx
Reparations for Black Communities through Educational ReformIntroductionBackground. Just over four centuries ago, the first African slaves arrived in the United States, beginning what would become a rapidly growing and lucrative industry well into the 19th century. Indeed, by the start of the Civil War in 1861, there were nearly 4 million black slaves in the United States despite the federal government banning the importation of new African slaves in 1808 (Hacker, 2021). In fact, the importation of African slaves did little to stop the trade and the practice continued on a large scale after 1808 in defiance of federal law (Africans in America, 2022). Although precise figures are unavailable, current estimates indicate that during the period between 1619 and 1865, enslaved Africans in the U.S. contributed 410 billion hours of labor to the American economy (Hacker, 2021). Moreover, modern scholars routinely underestimate the economic value of these billions of hour…...
mlaReferences
Africans in America. (2022). U.S. Library of Congress. Retrieved from loc.gov/classroom-materials/immigration/african/africans-in-america/.https://www.
Black’s Law Dictionary. (1998). St. Paul, MN: West Publishing Company.
Briggs, S. (2014, October 4). How To Make Learning Relevant to Your Students (And Why It’s Crucial to Their Success). InformED. Retrieved from opencolleges.edu.au/informed/features/how-to-make-learning-relevant/.https://www.
Analysis ProjectI. TopicReparations within Black communities in Chicago through educational reform is an important topic that has gained significant attention in recent years (Darity & Mullen, 2020; Rubin et al., 2020). The idea behind reparations is to provide redress for past injustices, and one of the ways to achieve this is through educational reform (Taiwo, 2022). The goal of educational reform is to create equal opportunities for all students, regardless of their race or socioeconomic status (Fung et al., 2022; Zajda, 2022).There is statistical data that shows a positive correlation between the rate of Black student college attendance and college students financial hardships. This means that Black students are more likely to face financial difficulties when pursuing higher education compared to non-Black students. These financial hardships can include student loan debt, lack of access to resources such as textbooks and technology, and difficulty finding employment after graduation.The effects of these…...
mlaReferences
Coates, T. N. (2021). The case for reparations. The Atlantic.
Darity Jr, W. A., & Mullen, A. K. (2022). From here to equality: Reparations for Black Americans in the twenty-first century. UNC Press Books.
Epstein, J. L. (2019). Theory to practice: School and family partnerships lead to school improvement and student success. In School, family and community interaction (pp. 39-52). Routledge.
esearch Proposaleparations for Black Communities in Chicago through Educational eformQualitative esearch Methods IAbstractThis research proposal explores the feasibility of employing educational reforms as a form of reparations for Black communities in Chicago, addressing the persistent educational disparities rooted in systemic racism and the legacy of slavery. The study adopts a qualitative research design, utilizing in-depth semi-structured interviews, focus groups, and participatory observations to gather rich narratives from Black students, educators, and community members. These methods aim to capture the lived experiences, challenges, and aspirations within the educational system, providing a comprehensive understanding of the disparities faced by Black communities in Chicago. Guided by Critical ace Theory and eparative Justice, the analysis employs Braun and Clarke\\\'s thematic analysis framework, ensuring an inductive and iterative approach to data interpretation. Ethical considerations, including Institutional eview Board approval, informed consent, and confidentiality, are prioritized to protect participants\\\' dignity and rights. The study\\\'s trustworthiness is…...
mlaReferences 26Appendices 28Informed Consent Form for Participation in Research Study 28Reparations for Black Communities in Chicago through Educational ReformOverviewThe city of Chicago has a long history with a diverse population. Today, it stands as a microcosm of the United States\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\' broader socio-economic and racial dynamics. Within this urban setting, the educational experiences of Black communities represent, however, a profound and persistent disparity. This chasm in educational opportunities and outcomes is a product of contemporary policy failures rooted in systemic racism and the legacy of slavery (Wright II et al., 2022). For generations, these communities have existed within an educational system that has been shaped and constrained by these historical forces, resulting in a compounding of disadvantage that has ramifications far outside schools and classrooms.These disparities manifest in various dimensions of the educational experience, including access to quality schools, availability of advanced placement courses, experienced and well-supported teachers, and educational resources and infrastructure (Alam & Mohanty, 2023). These inequities are further exacerbated by socioeconomic factors that disproportionately affect Black families, such as poverty, housing instability, and access to healthcare and nutrition, which in turn impact students\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\' readiness to learn and succeed academically (Supovitz, 2023). The educational experiences of Black students in Chicago is thus situated within a structure that has been historically designed to marginalize and limit their educational and, by extension, socio-economic prospects.Problem StatementThe educational system in Chicago reflects wider national trends and is marred by deep-seated inequities that disproportionately hinder Black students, particularly those in impoverished areas (Small, 2020). These disparities are not incidental but are the product of a complex interplay of factors rooted in a long history of systemic racism. This systemic racism has manifested in policies and practices that have historically segregated communities, allocated resources inequitably, and curtailed educational opportunities for Black students. The legacy of such systemic barriers is a terrain of educational inequity that perpetuates the cycle of disadvantage and limits the potential for upward mobility among Black communities in Chicago.These educational inequities are a critical concern because education is a fundamental driver of individual and community development, economic stability, and societal progress. The systemic denial of equitable educational opportunities to Black students not only undermines their individual potential but also perpetuates broader patterns of racial inequality and injustice. Addressing these disparities requires a comprehensive understanding of their historical roots and a concerted effort to dismantle the systemic barriers that sustain them.Purpose StatementThe purpose of this study is to explore the feasibility of educational reforms as a form of reparations for Black communities in Chicago. This research aims to address the financial burdens and systemic barriers that disproportionately affect Black students in economically disadvantaged areas, recognizing the enduring impact of historical slavery and systemic racism in the United States. As it frames educational reform within the context of reparations, this study aims to acknowledge and address the historical injustices that have shaped the current educational disparities faced by Black communities in Chicago.This exploration is predicated on the belief that educational equity is a critical component of reparative justice. In proposing and examining targeted educational reforms, the study seeks to identify and advocate for strategies that can alleviate the educational disparities that stem from historical oppression. The ultimate goal is to contribute to the development of an educational system in Chicago that is truly equitable, just, and capable of providing all students, regardless of their racial or economic background, with the opportunities and resources necessary to succeed. This research seeks to pave the way for systemic changes that not only address the symptoms of educational inequity but also confront and rectify its underlying causes, offering a blueprint for transformative justice in education.Research Question(RQ1) What are the lived experiences and perspectives of Black students, educators, and community members in poverty-stricken areas of Chicago regarding the impact of historical oppression on their educational opportunities and outcomes? The research question posed in this study is designed to address significant gaps in the current understanding of educational disparities within Black communities in Chicago (Rubin et al., 2020). This question is not only relevant but essential for several reasons:RQ1: Understanding Lived ExperiencesThe research question will guide the examination into the lived experiences and perspectives of Black students, educators, and community members in poverty-stricken areas of Chicago. This inquiry is important for several reasons.Qualitative EvidenceIt aims to gather qualitative evidence on how historical oppression has impacted educational opportunities and outcomes, to arrive at a better understanding of the human experience of education in these communities.Voice to Marginalized CommunitiesThis question gives voice to individuals and communities who are often marginalized in educational research and policy-making. Because it focuses on their perspectives and experiences, the study acknowledges the importance of including those most affected by educational disparities in the conversation about reform.Identify Specific Challenges and NeedsUnderstanding the specific challenges and needs of Black students, educators, and community members can inform more targeted and effective interventions. It allows for the identification of unique factors that contribute to educational disparities, which may not be apparent without a deep dive into the lived experiences of those within the affected communities.Addressing the Gap in ResearchTogether, these research questions address a critical gap in the existing body of research by focusing on both the micro (individual and community-level experiences) and macro (systemic reforms) aspects of educational disparities. Most existing research tends to focus on one aspect or the other, often neglecting the interplay between lived experiences and systemic changes. Through the integration of these two dimensions, this study seeks to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the problem and a more holistic approach to addressing it. Moreover, situating the study within the context of reparative justice and targeted reforms offers a novel approach that can contribute to the broader discourse on educational equity and reform.Overview of Research DesignThis study employs a qualitative research design to explore the lived experiences and perspectives of Black students, educators, and community members in impecunious areas of Chicago, alongside the potential for targeted educational reforms. The design is rooted in narrative inquiry and phenomenological approaches, aiming to capture the depth and complexity of participants\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\' experiences and insights. Data collection methods will include in-depth interviews, focus groups, and participatory observation, allowing for a rich, detailed understanding of the impact of historical oppression on educational opportunities and outcomes. This approach also supports the development and evaluation of targeted educational reforms by engaging directly with those most affected by educational disparities.Rationale & SignificanceThe rationale behind this research stems from the urgent need to address the systemic inequities in education faced by Black communities in Chicago. The significance of this study lies in its potential to contribute to the body of knowledge on educational disparities, offering evidence-based insights into the lived realities of those affected by historical oppression. Because it is qualitative, this research is exploratory for the purpose of obtaining deeper understanding that can inform more empathetic, effective, and justice-oriented educational policies and practices. At the same time, this research into the lived experiences of the interviewees can contribute to the development of targeted educational reforms to address the specific needs of Black communities in Chicago. The lived lives and actual experiences of Black communities are currently vital but untapped reservoirs of information. Once obtained that information will be helpful in the later development of solutions. Situating educational reforms within a reparative justice framework also represents a novel contribution to the discourse on educational equity, advocating for solutions that not only address present inequities but also acknowledge and seek to remedy historical injustices.Role of the Researcher (Positionality Statement)As the researcher, my positionality is shaped by my own educational background, experiences, and socio-political consciousness. As an individual from the far southside of Chicago, my personal journey as a Black man intricately intertwines with the diverse tapestry of experiences I aim to explore through interviews, focus groups, and participatory observations. I acknowledge my role as both an observer and participant within the educational landscape, bringing my own perspectives and biases to the research process. My commitment to social justice and educational equity guides my approach, with an awareness of the power dynamics inherent in the research process. I aim to conduct this research with humility, reflexivity, and a commitment to ethical engagement, striving to amplify the voices and experiences of participants while minimizing any potential harm or misrepresentation.Researcher AssumptionsI enter this research with several assumptions:· That educational disparities in Chicago\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s Black communities are significantly influenced by historical and systemic racism.· That the perspectives and experiences of those living in poverty-stricken areas are essential for understanding the full impact of these disparities.· That targeted educational reforms have the potential to act as a form of reparative justice, contributing to the dismantling of systemic barriers to equity.These assumptions are grounded in existing literature and my own observations but will be critically examined throughout the research process.Definition of Key TerminologyEducational Disparities: Differences in educational resources, opportunities, and outcomes that disproportionately affect certain groups, often based on race, socio-economic status, and geographical location.Systemic Racism: The complex interaction of policies, practices, and cultural representations that reinforce and perpetuate racial inequity and discrimination across various societal systems, including education.Reparative Justice: An approach to justice that focuses on repairing the harm caused by injustices, often through restitution, compensation, and the transformation of social relations and systems that enabled the injustices.Qualitative Research: A research methodology that seeks to understand phenomena through the in-depth exploration of human experiences, perceptions, and social contexts, primarily through narrative and observational methods.Literature Review IntroductionThis literature review examines existing research and theoretical perspectives related to educational disparities among Black communities in Chicago, the impact of historical oppression on these disparities, and the potential for educational reforms as reparative measures. The review is structured around three main themes that emerge from the literature: the historical roots of educational inequities, the current landscape of educational disparities, and strategies for educational reform and reparations. Through this review, this study can be contextualized within the wider academic discourse, highlighting gaps that our research aims to address.Review of LiteratureTheme 1: Historical Roots of Educational InequitiesResearch within this theme explores the historical underpinnings of educational disparities, tracing back to the era of segregation and discriminatory policies that explicitly excluded Black students from accessing quality education. Studies highlight how these historical injustices have left enduring marks on the educational landscape, affecting generations of Black students. For instance, Anderson (1988) in \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\"The Education of Blacks in the South, 1860-1935\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\" provides a seminal analysis of how post-Civil War policies shaped educational opportunities for Black Americans, laying the groundwork for contemporary disparities.Theme 2: Current Landscape of Educational DisparitiesThis theme focuses on the present-day manifestations of educational inequities, detailing how factors such as school funding formulas, teacher quality, and curriculum relevance continue to disadvantage Black students. Research shows that schools serving predominantly Black communities often receive fewer resources, employ less experienced teachers, and have lower graduation rates compared to schools in more affluent, predominantly White neighborhoods. Works by Darling-Hammond (2010) in \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\"The Flat World and Education\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\" and Kozol (1991) in \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\"Savage Inequalities\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\" provide detailed accounts of these disparities and their impacts on students\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\' educational experiences and outcomes.Theme 3: Strategies for Educational Reform and ReparationsThe literature on educational reform and reparations discusses various approaches to addressing the inequities faced by Black students, including policy changes, community engagement initiatives, and the implementation of culturally relevant pedagogy. Scholars argue for targeted interventions that not only address the symptoms of educational disparities but also tackle their root causes, including historical oppression and systemic racism. Ladson-Billings (2006) in \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\"From the Achievement Gap to the Education Debt: Understanding Achievement in U.S. Schools\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\" introduces the concept of \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\"education debt,\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\" advocating for reparations as a means to address the cumulative effects of educational inequities.Conceptual or Theoretical FrameworkThe conceptual framework for this study draws on Critical Race Theory (CRT) and the theory of Reparative Justice. CRT provides a lens through which to understand educational disparities as a function of systemic racism, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and addressing the racialized nature of educational inequities. Delgado and Stefancic (2017) describe CRT as a movement that seeks to examine the relationship between race, racism, and power in society. Reparative Justice theory complements this by offering a framework for developing educational reforms that not only seek to address current disparities but also acknowledge and remedy the historical injustices that have contributed to the present situation. This combination of CRT and Reparative Justice theory underpins our approach to investigating the feasibility of educational reforms as a form of reparations for Black communities in Chicago, guiding our analysis of both the problem and potential solutions.Methodology and MethodsIntroduction/OverviewThis study adopts a narrative-based qualitative research methodology to explore the lived experiences and perspectives of Black students, educators, and community members regarding the impact of historical oppression on their educational opportunities and outcomes in Chicago. Qualitative methods are chosen for their strength in uncovering the depth, complexity, and nuance of human experiences, particularly in contexts of inequality and injustice. A narrative approach, in particular, is well-suited for capturing the rich, detailed stories that can inform reparative educational reforms. This methodology emphasizes the power of personal and communal narratives in understanding the multifaceted realities of participants, offering a unique lens through which to view the educational landscape of Chicago\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s Black communities.Rationale for Research Design/Methodology Literature ReviewThe narrative-based qualitative research methodology is central to this study\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s objective of exploring the intricate dynamics of educational disparities influenced by systemic racism, historical oppression, and socio-economic factors. Such an approach is particularly effective in engaging with the lived experiences of Black communities in Chicago, allowing for an in-depth exploration of how these factors intersect to shape educational outcomes (Creswell & Poth, 2018). By prioritizing narrative methods such as in-depth interviews, focus groups, and narrative analysis, the research places the voices and lived experiences of those directly impacted by educational inequities at the forefront of the inquiry. This ensures that their stories and perspectives are not just included but are pivotal to the analysis and conclusions drawn.The inherent flexibility of narrative-based qualitative research facilitates the exploration of phenomena as experienced by participants, without the constraints of preconceived notions or rigid analytical frameworks that might overlook the complexities of marginalized communities (Merriam & Tisdell, 2015). This approach supports an iterative process of data collection and analysis, allowing for a deeper engagement with the material and subjective experiences of participants. Such depth is vital for addressing the nuanced questions central to this study, particularly regarding the effects of historical oppression and the avenues for achieving reparative justice through educational reform.Grounding the study in Critical Race Theory (CRT) and Reparative Justice further supports the importance of a narrative approach. CRT emphasizes the role of storytelling and narrative in examining and contesting racism and inequality, making narrative methods an ideal fit for research informed by this theoretical lens (Delgado & Stefancic, 2017). The focus on narratives allows for a critical examination of the socio-historical contexts of educational disparities, highlighting the significance of personal and collective stories in understanding and addressing these issues.Furthermore, the emphasis on Reparative Justice aligns with the narrative methodology\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s capacity to articulate the processes and outcomes necessary for genuine healing and systemic transformation. Narrative approaches open the way for a detailed understanding of harm from the perspectives of those who have experienced it, facilitating a methodological pathway that captures these intricacies in depth (Atkinson, et al., 2001). Through focusing on narrative methods, this study aims to contribute to the broader discourse on educational equity and reform, offering insights that could inform more empathetic, effective, and justice-oriented educational policies and practices.Narrative-based research has increasingly been recognized for its value in social sciences and educational research, offering profound insights into the complex interplay of individual experiences and broader socio-cultural contexts. Scholars such as Riessman (2008) and Chase (2007) have shown the importance of narrative methods in capturing the richness and depth of human experiences, arguing that stories are fundamental to the way individuals make sense of their lives and the world around them. These narratives offer a powerful lens through which to explore identity, agency, and the impact of social structures on individual lives, making them particularly relevant for studies focused on marginalized communities and issues of social justice.The value of narrative-based research lies in its ability to highlight the subjectivity and agency of participants, providing insights into their lived experiences that other methods may not capture. This approach respects the complexity of human experiences, recognizing that people live through and understand their lives in the form of stories. Bruner (1991) posits that narratives are ways of telling about experiences and are also a fundamental means by which we interpret our world. This perspective aligns with the objectives of narrative-based research, emphasizing the importance of understanding individuals\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\' experiences within their cultural and historical contexts.Narrative-based research is particularly applicable to this study on educational reforms as a form of reparations for Black communities in Chicago for several reasons. First, it allows for an exploration of the personal and communal impacts of historical oppression and systemic racism on educational opportunities and outcomes. By gathering and analyzing narratives from Black students, educators, and community members, the research can uncover the nuanced ways in which these forces shape educational experiences and perceptions. Second, narrative research facilitates a deeper understanding of the potential for educational reforms to address and rectify historical injustices. Through the collection of stories, the study can identify themes of resilience, resistance, and transformation that are central to reparative justice. Finally, by centering the voices of those directly impacted by educational inequities, narrative-based research challenges the dominant discourses that often marginalize or overlook the experiences of Black communities. This approach not only contributes to a more nuanced understanding of educational disparities but also empowers participants by valuing their stories as essential sources of knowledge and insight.Research Setting/ContextThe research will be conducted in impoverished areas of Chicago, identified through socio-economic data and educational performance indicators. Indicators such as income levels, unemployment rates, housing stability, and access to health services paint a comprehensive picture of the lived realities of communities. Likewise, educational performance indicators, including graduation rates, standardized test scores, and access to advanced coursework, offer concrete evidence of the disparities in educational outcomes. These locations are selected due to their historical and ongoing experiences of educational inequity, making them critical sites for investigating the impact of systemic racism on educational opportunities. The selection of these areas acknowledges the historical legacies of segregation, redlining, and disinvestment that have shaped the educational landscape of Chicago\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s impoverished neighborhoods. This historical context is essential for understanding the current state of educational inequity, as past policies and practices have laid the groundwork for present challenges. The ongoing experiences of educational inequity, manifested in disparities in funding, resources, and outcomes, provide a compelling case for examining how systemic racism continues to impact educational opportunities. By focusing on these areas, the research positions itself to explore the complex interplay between systemic racism and education. These communities offer critical insights into the barriers to educational equity and the potential for transformative reforms. Investigating these sites enables a deeper understanding of how systemic racism is embedded within educational policies and practices, and how it can be addressed through targeted interventions (Ladson-Billings, 2006).Research Sample/Sources of DataThe selection of participants through purposive sampling for the study is a deliberate method aimed at capturing the richness and diversity of experiences within the educational landscape of Chicago\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s Black communities. This sampling strategy is particularly suited for qualitative research, where the depth of individual and collective experiences are more informative than statistical representativeness. Through focusing on Black students, educators, and community members, the research can obtain a comprehensive understanding of the educational experiences of those most affected by systemic inequities.Diversity of Perspectives and ExperiencesThe purposive sampling strategy is designed to ensure a broad representation of views and experiences within the study\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s target population. This includes students at different educational levels, educators with varying years of experience and roles within schools (e.g., teachers, administrators, support staff), and community members who have insights into the local educational system, including parents, guardians, and local leaders. Such diversity enriches the data, by giving a fuller view of the educational disparities and potential reform initiatives.Black Students in Public SchoolsFocusing on Black students currently enrolled in public schools allows the study to directly engage with those who are experiencing the educational system\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s current state. This group is vital for understanding how educational policies, practices, and disparities impact student outcomes, aspirations, and day-to-day experiences. Students can provide firsthand accounts of their educational journey, challenges faced, and their perceptions of what changes are needed to create a more equitable educational environment.Educators in These SchoolsEducators working in the selected areas are crucial sources of data, offering professional perspectives on the systemic barriers to educational equity and the effectiveness of current reform efforts. Their experiences can shed light on the challenges of teaching in under-resourced schools, the impact of systemic racism on educational practices, and the potential for targeted reforms to improve educational outcomes for Black students. Educators\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\' insights are essential for understanding the operational aspects of educational disparities and identifying leverage points for systemic change.Community Members Residing in the Selected AreasCommunity members, including parents, guardians, and local leaders, provide an external yet intimately connected perspective on the educational system. They can offer observations on the broader socio-economic factors affecting educational equity, community-school interactions, and the historical context of educational disparities in their areas. Engaging with community members helps ground the study in the lived realities of the neighborhoods under examination, ensuring that proposed reforms are responsive to community needs and aspirations.Ensuring a Comprehensive UnderstandingThe combination of these participant groups will facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the educational landscape from multiple angles. Each group contributes unique insights that, when woven together, present a detailed picture of the challenges and opportunities for educational reform in Chicago\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s Black communities. This approach makes it so that rich data collected and that data sources align with the study\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s commitment to inclusivity and depth, honoring the complexity of the issue at hand.Data Collection MethodsThe data collection methods chosen for this study are central to its aim of exploring the lived experiences of Black communities in Chicago with respect to educational inequities. Each method—semi-structured interviews, focus groups, and participatory observations—serves a unique purpose and, when combined, offers a rich, multi-dimensional perspective on the issues at hand. These methods are designed to engage deeply with participants, eliciting detailed narratives, insights, and reflections that can inform the development of targeted educational reforms.In-depth Semi-structured InterviewsSemi-structured interviews are a foundational data collection method for this study, offering a flexible yet focused framework for exploring participants\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\' experiences and perspectives. This format allows the researcher to probe deeply into the personal narratives of Black students, educators, and community members, facilitating an understanding of their individual journeys, challenges, and aspirations within the educational system. The semi-structured nature of these interviews ensures that while certain key topics are addressed across all interviews, there is also room for participants to share their unique experiences and insights, leading to a richer dataset (Osborne & Grant-Smith, 2021).These interviews will be conducted with a carefully prepared set of open-ended questions that guide the conversation while allowing for spontaneous exploration of topics that participants deem important. This approach is particularly effective in uncovering details of how systemic racism and socioeconomic factors intersect to impact educational opportunities and outcomes.Focus GroupsFocus groups offer a complementary approach to individual interviews by facilitating dynamic discussions among participants who share similar experiences or perspectives (Morgan, 2002). These sessions are invaluable for exploring the collective perceptions of educational inequities and generating dialogue on potential reforms. Focus groups can uncover community-level insights and shared experiences that might not emerge in one-on-one interviews. They also provide a space for participants to interact with and react to each other\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s perspectives, potentially leading to a deeper exploration of issues and a more robust understanding of communal and shared experiences.The focus groups in this study will be carefully composed to ensure a comfortable and respectful environment where participants feel empowered to speak openly. Discussions will be guided by a set of themes related to the study\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s research questions but will remain flexible enough to follow the group\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s conversational flow and explore emergent topics.Participatory ObservationsParticipatory observation involves the researcher being immersed in the community and educational settings being studied, offering a direct view of the contexts and dynamics that shape educational experiences (Musante & DeWalt, 2010). This method enables the collection of data on the interactions, practices, and environments that influence educational outcomes for Black communities in Chicago. Through observing and participating in community and school activities, the researcher can gain insights into the lived realities of the study\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s participants, providing a valuable context for interpreting the findings from interviews and focus groups.Participatory observations will be conducted with an ethical commitment to respect and non-intrusion, ensuring that the presence of the researcher supports and does not disrupt the natural flow of community and educational activities. This method not only enriches the study\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s data but also deepens the researcher\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s understanding and empathy for the participants\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\' experiences.Data Analysis MethodsThe thematic analysis approach, as outlined by Braun and Clarke (2006) is a flexible framework for analyzing qualitative data. Thematic analysis can be used to identify and interpret patterns of meaning (themes) across the dataset. In the context of this study on educational reform as a form of reparations for Black communities in Chicago, thematic analysis will facilitate a deep engagement with the narratives, experiences, and insights of participants, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the educational disparities they face.The process begins with inductive coding, where data are coded without trying to fit it into a pre-existing coding frame, or the researcher\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s analytic preconceptions. This bottom-up approach allows for the emergence of unexpected insights and themes, ensuring that the analysis is genuinely driven by the data. This phase is important for capturing the authentic voices and experiences of Black students, educators, and community members, providing a grounded basis for subsequent thematic development.The analysis is inherently iterative, with the researcher moving back and forth between the collected data and the emerging analysis. This iterative process allows for the refinement of themes, ensuring they accurately capture the complexities and nuances of the data. Such an approach helps with maintaining analytical rigor and depth, allowing for adjustments and refinements as new data are collected and as the researcher\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s understanding of the data deepens (Braun & Clarke, 2006).Integrating CRT and Reparative Justice into the thematic analysis process will help make it so that the analysis can identify themes and interpret them within the broader socio-historical and racial context. CRT gives a lens through which to view and understand the data, emphasizing the centrality of race and racism in the experiences being studied. Similarly, Reparative Justice offers a framework for identifying themes related to healing, restitution, and systemic transformation, aligning the analysis with the study\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s aim of exploring educational reform as a form of reparations.To improve the depth of the thematic analysis, the study will use several strategies, including engaging in a prolonged engagement with the data to obtain a deep familiarity; seeking feedback from peers on the coding and theme development process, and maintaining a reflexive journal to document the researcher\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s thoughts, reflections, and decisions throughout the analytical process. These steps can help to mitigate bias, enhance the credibility of the analysis, and ensure that the findings are robust, reliable, and meaningful (Braun & Clarke, 2006).Ethical ConsiderationsEthical considerations are important in research, especially in studies dealing with sensitive topics such as racial disparities and educational inequities. The study\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s commitment to ethical rigor involves several key components. The first is seeking approval from IRBs ensures that the research design meets ethical standards for protecting participants. This process involves a review of the study\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s methods and materials to ensure they do not pose undue risk to participants.Second is obtaining informed consent. Participants must be fully aware of the study\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s purpose, what their participation entails, the potential risks and benefits, and their rights as participants, including the right to withdraw at any time without penalty. This process respects participants\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\' autonomy and decision-making capacity.Third is protecting the identities of participants. Measures will be taken to ensure that data are anonymized and securely stored, with access limited to the research team. Confidentiality agreements will be in place to prevent unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information. Also, emphasizing the voluntary nature of participation is essential. Participants should feel free to engage in the study without any coercion or undue influence, ensuring that their involvement is based on their free and informed choice.Issues of TrustworthinessTrustworthiness in qualitative research is about the accuracy and credibility of the findings. Several strategies will be employed to enhance the trustworthiness of this study. First is triangulation by using multiple data sources and theoretical perspectives (triangulation). Second is member checking, which involves sharing summaries of findings with participants or allowing them to review the data and interpretations related to their contributions. Member checking serves as a form of validation, ensuring that the research accurately reflects participants\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\' experiences and perspectives. Third is keeping a reflective journal.Limitations & DelimitationsAcknowledging the limitations and delimitations of the study is crucial for understanding its scope and the applicability of its findings. The main limitation here is the approach. Qualitative research can be rich in detail and depth, but it often faces challenges related to the subjective interpretation of data and the difficulty of generalizing findings to broader populations. The interpretive nature of qualitative analysis means that findings are influenced by the researcher\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s perspectives and the specific contexts within which data were collected.Delimitations define the boundaries of the study. In this case, the focus on specific communities within Chicago limits the extent to which findings can be generalized to other contexts or populations. These delimitations are necessary to achieve the study\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s aims but also define the scope within which the findings are applicable.SummaryThis research proposal delves into the persistent educational disparities faced by Black communities in Chicago, aiming to explore the feasibility of reparations through targeted educational reforms. The study is motivated by a critical examination of how historical oppression has shaped the educational opportunities and outcomes for Black students in poverty-stricken areas of Chicago. Through a narrative-based qualitative research design, this investigation seeks to capture the lived experiences and perspectives of Black students, educators, and community members, thereby illuminating the complex interplay between historical injustices and current educational inequities.The literature review provides a foundational understanding of three primary themes: the historical roots of educational inequities, the current landscape of educational disparities, and strategies for educational reform and reparations. In situating the study within the conceptual frameworks of Critical Race Theory and Reparative Justice, it aims to address not only the symptoms but also the root causes of educational disparities, proposing solutions that are both equitable and reparative in nature.ConclusionThe significance of this research lies in its potential to contribute to the ongoing dialogue on educational equity and reparations. With its focus on the specific context of Black communities in Chicago, the study sheds light on the necessity of addressing historical injustices as a critical component of educational reform. The proposed research questions aim to fill a gap in the current body of knowledge, offering insights that could inform the development of more just and effective educational policies and practices. The findings from this research have the potential to inform not only academic discourse but also policy-making and community action, paving the way for reforms that truly address the needs and aspirations of Black communities in Chicago. Ultimately, this study aims to contribute to a broader movement towards an educational system that is equitable, inclusive, and reparative, offering a model for how targeted reforms can serve as a means of acknowledging and remedying historical injustices.ReferencesAlam, A., & Mohanty, A. (2023). Cultural beliefs and equity in educational institutions: exploring the social and philosophical notions of ability groupings in teaching and learning of mathematics. International Journal of Adolescence and Youth, 28(1), 2270662.Anderson, J. D. (1988). The Education of Blacks in the South, 1860-1935. Chapel Hill: University of North Carolina Press.Atkinson, P., Coffey, A., & Delamont, S. (2001). A debate about our canon. Qualitative Research, 1(1), 5-21.Bloomberg, L.D. (2023). Completing your qualitative dissertation: A road map from beginning to end (5th ed.). SAGE Publications, Inc.Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2006). Using thematic analysis in psychology. Qualitative Research in Psychology, 3(2), 77-101.Bruner, J. (1991). The narrative construction of reality. Critical Inquiry, 18(1), 1-21.Chase, S. E. (2007). Multiple lenses, approaches, voices. Collecting and interpreting qualitative materials, 57(3), 651-679.Creswell, J. W., & Poth, C. N. (2018). Qualitative Inquiry and Research Design: Choosing Among Five Approaches. Sage publications.Darling-Hammond, L. (2010). The Flat World and Education: How America\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s Commitment to Equity Will Determine Our Future. New York: Teachers College Press.Delgado, R., & Stefancic, J. (2017). Critical Race Theory: An Introduction. New York: New York University Press.Kozol, J. (1991). Savage Inequalities: Children in America\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s Schools. New York: Crown Publishing Group.Ladson-Billings, G. (2006). From the Achievement Gap to the Education Debt: Understanding Achievement in U.S. Schools. Educational Researcher, 35(7), 3-12.Mathis, C. L. (2022). Higher Education Redress Statutes: A Critical Analysis of States\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\' Reparations in Higher Education. Wash. & Lee L. Rev., 79, 1829.Merriam, S. B., & Tisdell, E. J. (2015). Qualitative Research: A Guide to Design and Implementation. Jossey-Bass.Morgan, D. L. (2002). Focus group interviewing. Handbook of interview research: Context and method, 141, 159.Musante, K., & DeWalt, B. R. (2010). Participant observation: A guide for fieldworkers. Rowman Altamira.Osborne, N., & Grant-Smith, D. (2021). In-depth interviewing. In Methods in Urban Analysis (pp. 105-125). Singapore: Springer Singapore.Riessman, C. K. (2008). Narrative Methods for the Human Sciences. Sage Publications.Rubin, J. S., Good, R. M., & Fine, M. (2020). Parental action and neoliberal education reform: Crafting a research agenda. Journal of Urban Affairs, 42(4), 492-510.Small, D. (2020, January). The hidden curriculum in public schools and its disadvantage to minority students. In International Forum of Teaching and Studies (Vol. 16, No. 1, pp. 16-24). American Scholars Press, Inc..Supovitz, J. A., Hemphill, A. A., Manghani, O., & Watson, C. (2023). Cogs of inequity: How structural inequities impeded school efforts to support students and families at the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Equity in Education & Society, 27526461231153666.Wright II, J. E., Dolamore, S., & Berry-James, R. M. (2022). What the hell is wrong with America? The truth about racism and justice for all. Journal of Public Management & Social Policy, 29(1), 2.AppendicesInformed Consent Form for Participation in Research StudyTitle of Research Study: Reparations for Black Communities in Chicago through Educational ReformResearcher Information:[Name, Position, Affiliation, Contact Information]Introduction:You are being invited to participate in a research study that explores the feasibility of educational reforms as a form of reparations for Black communities in Chicago. Before you decide whether to participate, it is important for you to understand why the research is being done and what it will involve. Please take time to read the following information carefully.Purpose of the Study:This study aims to investigate the impact of historical oppression on educational opportunities and outcomes for Black students, educators, and community members in impoverished areas of Chicago. The research seeks to explore the potential for targeted educational reforms to act as a form of reparative justice.What Does Participation Involve?If you agree to participate in this study, you will be asked to:· Participate in one or more in-depth semi-structured interviews, which will last approximately 60-90 minutes.· Potentially participate in a focus group with other participants, which will last approximately 90 minutes.· Allow for participatory observations in educational or community settings, with specific details to be agreed upon in advance.During interviews and focus groups, you will be asked about your experiences, perceptions, and opinions regarding educational opportunities, challenges, and the potential for reforms within the community. All participation is voluntary, and you may withdraw at any time without penalty.Confidentiality:Your privacy and the confidentiality of your information are of utmost importance. All information that is collected during the study will be kept confidential. Identifiable information will be anonymized in any reports or publications resulting from this study. Data will be stored securely and will only be accessible to the research team.Risks and Benefits:There are minimal risks associated with participation in this study. Discussing experiences with educational disparities may cause discomfort. If you experience discomfort, you may withdraw or choose not to answer specific questions. While there may be no direct benefits to you, your participation is valuable in contributing to our understanding of educational disparities and potential reforms in Chicago.Your Rights as a Participant:· Your participation in this study is entirely voluntary.· You may refuse to participate or withdraw at any time without consequence.· You have the right to skip any questions you prefer not to answer.Consent:I have read the above information and have received satisfactory answers to any questions I had. I understand the purpose, procedures, risks, and benefits of my participation in this study and agree to participate. I understand that I am free to withdraw at any time without penalty.By signing below, I acknowledge that I have read and understood this consent form and agree to participate in the research study.Participant\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s Name (Printed)Participant\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s Signature & DateResearcher\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s Signature & DateIf you have any questions about the study, please contact the researcher using the information provided above. Thank you for considering participation in this important research.
eparations for Black Communities through Educational eformOutlineI. Introductiona. Backgroundb. Problem Statementc. PurposeII. Need for eparations for Black Communitiesa. Argumentb. LiteratureIII. Educational eforma. Increased funding for black-majority schoolsb. Increasing curriculum optionsc. School vouchersIV. Conclusiona. Summarize the problem/findingsb. estate thesisesearch QuestionsThe history of black oppression in the United States is well documented. From the days of slavery through the Jim Crow era and into the present, black Americans have faced discrimination and violence at the hands of their white counterparts. This long history of racism has left black communities at a distinct disadvantage when it comes to education. In order to begin to rectify this injustice, reparations should be paid in the form of educational reform.The research question guiding this paper will be: in what ways can education reform serve as reparation for black communities?The paper will show that educational reform should take many forms, including but not limited to: increased funding…...
mlaReferencesDarity Jr, W. A., & Mullen, A. K. (2022). From here to equality: Reparations for Black Americans in the twenty-first century. UNC Press Books.Green III, P. C., Baker, B. D., & Oluwole, J. O. (2020). School finance, race, and reparations. Wash. & Lee J. Civ. Rts. & Soc. Just., 27, 483.Ray, R., & Perry, A. M. (2020). Why we need reparations for Black Americans. Policy.Royal, C. (2022). Not Paved for Us: Black Educators and Public School Reform in \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ Philadelphia. Harvard Education Press.
, 2000). This increased responsibility has placed a tremendous amount of pressure on teachers, which in turn places a tremendous amount of pressure on the students as well.
However, even with the negative issues that have come with education reform, it has been shown that discarding certain traditional teaching methods may be a positive step for education especially in the math and science departments. Hands-on lab exercises have begun to dominate the landscape of science classes, replacing the traditional methods of passive-student lectures. True experimentation and exploration of scientific principles is encouraged and highlighted in many classrooms and seem to be much more effective than the traditional "recipe"-driven lab experiences. These interactive approaches have, so far, been proven to be far more effective teaching techniques than the traditional ones. However, even through these techniques the scoring on standardized tests are still disappointingly low in America especially in comparison to students of…...
mlaReferences
Hake R.R. (1998) "Interactive-engagement vs. traditional methods: A six-thousand- student survey of mechanics test data for introductory physics courses." American Journal of Physics, 66 (1), 64-74.
National Committee on Science Education Standards and Assessment, National Research
Council (1996) National science education standards. Washington D.C.: National Academy Press.
Watters, J.J., Diezmann, C.M., Grieshaber, S.J., & Davis, J.M. (2000) Enhancing science education for young children: A contemporary initiative. Australian Journal of Early Childhood 26(2):pp. 1-7.
According to a British Study conducted on all students born in the first week of March 1958, and following them through adolescence and on until the age of twenty-three:
There were no average differences between grouped and ungrouped schools because within the grouped schools, high-group students performed better than similar students in ungrouped schools, but low-group students did worse. Students in remedial classes performed especially poorly compared to ungrouped students with similar family backgrounds and initial achievement. With low-group losses offsetting high-group gains, the effects on productivity were about zero, but the impact on inequality was substantial." (Gamoran 1992)
As Gamoran points out, grouping or "tracking" tended to accentuate a student's skills or lack thereof. High-ability students benefited from segregation, but low-ability students did even worse than before. And while low-ability pupils received no benefit whatsoever from the tracking system, neither did their schools. The net gain in performance among the…...
mlaReferences
http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=5000952855
Barth, R.S. (2001). Teacher Leader. Phi Delta Kappan, 82(6), 443.
Brown Center on Education Policy, the Brookings Institution. (2000). "Part 2: A Closer Look at Mathematics Achievement." How Well are American Students Learning? Brown Center Report on American Education: 2000.
A www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=104861000
Education
Over the last several years, educators have been facing considerable challenges in meeting rising expectations for performance. This is because a host of solutions (such as the No Child Left Behind Act) have not addressed the lack of student achievement. Instead, academic performance has continued to linger and become worse in some areas (i.e. mathematics and science). (Hannah, 2012)
In New Jersey, the Core Content and Common Core Curriculum standards is designed to provide clarity on specific subjects and topics students must learn in order to graduate from high school. To fully understand how this occurring requires examining the way it is related to the concepts from Mary Zimmerman's Metamorphoses and a contemporary issue. This will be accomplished by focusing on the modes of communication, its shape and the way the literature can provoke cultural insights. Together, these elements will highlight how the Core Content and Common Core Curriculum standards are…...
mlaReferences
Science Standards. (2013). NJ. Retrieved from: http://www.nj.gov/education/cccs/standards/5/
Hannah, D. (2012). 5 Ways No Child Left Behind Act. American Progress. Retrieved from: http://www.americanprogress.org/issues/education/news/2013/04/08/59542/5-ways-no-child-left-behind-waivers-help-state-education-reform/
Rich, M. (2012). U.S. Students Still Lag. New York Times. Retrieved from: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/11/education/us-students-still-lag-globally-in-math-and-science-tests-show.html?_r=0
Wandberg, R. (2000). Communication. Mankato, MN: Life Matters.
Nearly all failing schools fit this description (Six Secrets of School Success 2000)." If a country is to overcome educational problems, they must take into account the mentality that poverty creates and how that mentality deteriorates the wherewithal to do well in school.
Although poverty is the issue that affects most underachieving schools, the idea of the super head was conceived as the answer to poorly performing schools. According to Marshall (2001), recruiting exceptional headmasters to improve schools was begun with what was once known as the Hammersmith County School (Marshall, 2001). The local authority school was located in the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham (Marshall, 2001). The neighboring schools were grant maintained and church schools (Marshall, 2001). The Hammersmith School was being closed because of poor results and OFSTED reports (Marshall, 2001). However, instead of closing the school the administration decided to reopen it and called it the…...
mlaReferences
Education. 2004. Official Site of the Labor Party. retrieved January 15, 2005 from;
http://www.labour.org.uk/education04/
Mixed feelings from 'super heads'. retrieved January 15, 2005 from; http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/education/2132516.stm
Superheads' call for £120k a year, (2000). retrieved January 15, 2005 from; http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/education/914516.stm
Essay Topics Related to President Trump and President Biden
Domestic Policy
Fiscal Policy Differences: Examine the contrasting approaches to fiscal policy employed by Presidents Trump and Biden, highlighting their impact on the economy and national debt.
Immigration Reform: Analyze the evolution of immigration policies under Presidents Trump and Biden, considering their motivations, implementation, and implications for the nation.
Healthcare Debate: Discuss the heated debate on healthcare under Presidents Trump and Biden, examining the Affordable Care Act, Medicaid expansion, and drug pricing reforms.
Education Reform: Compare the educational initiatives and policies proposed by Presidents Trump and Biden, evaluating their effectiveness and potential....
The Mangudadatu Family: A Political Dynasty in the Philippines
The Mangudadatu family is a prominent political dynasty in the Philippines, hailing from the province of Maguindanao in the southern region of Mindanao. For decades, they have held significant power and influence in the political landscape of the country, particularly in local and regional politics.
Origins and Rise to Power
The Mangudadatu family traces its political lineage back to the late Datu Udtog Matalam Mangudadatu, who served as a representative for Maguindanao in the Philippine Congress during the 1960s. However, it was his son, Esmael "Toto" Mangudadatu Sr., who cemented the family's political legacy.
Elected....
Colonization and Indigenous Identities in Canada
The colonization of Canada by European powers profoundly impacted Indigenous identities, leaving a complex and lasting legacy. It imposed a foreign value system, disrupted traditional ways of life, and marginalized Indigenous peoples from society.
Impacts on Indigenous Identities
Forced Assimilation: Colonizers implemented policies to assimilate Indigenous peoples into European culture, including residential schools, reserves, and the suppression of Indigenous languages and cultural practices. These policies eroded traditional identities and severed connections to community and land.
Land Dispossession: Indigenous lands were seized and redistributed to European settlers, disrupting the spiritual, economic, and cultural connection to their territories.....
Indigenous People's Identity and the Impact of Colonization Indigenous peoples around the world have endured centuries of colonization and its devastating consequences. The theft of land, resources, and cultural practices has had a profound impact on their identities and well-being. In Canada, the effects of colonization are particularly evident in the Canadian and provincial law-making and legislation that has sought to assimilate and suppress Indigenous cultures and identities. Canadian and Provincial Law-Making and Legislation Canadian and provincial law-making and legislation have played a significant role in shaping the identities of Indigenous peoples. For example, the Indian Act, enacted in 1876, defined who was....
Our semester plans gives you unlimited, unrestricted access to our entire library of resources —writing tools, guides, example essays, tutorials, class notes, and more.
Get Started Now