The Policy Context of Recent Curriculum Reforms in Australia.
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| Title: | The Policy Context of Recent Curriculum Reforms in Australia. |
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| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Carter, D. S. G. |
| Peer Reviewed: | N |
| Page Count: | 21 |
| Publication Date: | 1994 |
| Document Type: | Reports - Research Speeches/Meeting Papers |
| Descriptors: | Curriculum Development, Curriculum Problems, Economic Climate, Economic Factors, Educational Objectives, Educational Philosophy, Elementary Secondary Education, Foreign Countries, Political Issues, Politics of Education |
| Geographic Terms: | Australia |
| Abstract: | Australia's economy slowly emerged from recession in the 1990s. Populist government leaders claimed that their economic restructuring policies of the 1980s were responsible for the economic turnaround. But even with greater national economic optimism, Australians have wondered why their country has not fared better economically both internally and in competition with other nations. Public pressure has pushed politicians to attempt to maintain high living standards and improve social conditions with fewer resources. Education also has been redefined in essentialist and instrumental terms to serve labor market needs. This view has clashed with the liberal-humanist tradition of curriculum most educators embrace. The national government's emphasis on economics in education policy can be seen in its national education goals: increased participation in education, skills training, private sector and trade union involvement in skills education, improved school retention, and improved overall quality. National curriculum frameworks also have played an increased role in furthering social and economic policy objectives. Frameworks provide an overall approach and focus for curriculum, but allow schools the freedom to make local changes. Also, inclusive curriculum has attempted to make education more inclusive of students' different gender, race, and culture. (Contains 29 references.) (JPT) |
| Entry Date: | 1994 |
| Accession Number: | ED370204 |
| Database: | ERIC |
| Abstract: | Australia's economy slowly emerged from recession in the 1990s. Populist government leaders claimed that their economic restructuring policies of the 1980s were responsible for the economic turnaround. But even with greater national economic optimism, Australians have wondered why their country has not fared better economically both internally and in competition with other nations. Public pressure has pushed politicians to attempt to maintain high living standards and improve social conditions with fewer resources. Education also has been redefined in essentialist and instrumental terms to serve labor market needs. This view has clashed with the liberal-humanist tradition of curriculum most educators embrace. The national government's emphasis on economics in education policy can be seen in its national education goals: increased participation in education, skills training, private sector and trade union involvement in skills education, improved school retention, and improved overall quality. National curriculum frameworks also have played an increased role in furthering social and economic policy objectives. Frameworks provide an overall approach and focus for curriculum, but allow schools the freedom to make local changes. Also, inclusive curriculum has attempted to make education more inclusive of students' different gender, race, and culture. (Contains 29 references.) (JPT) |
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