eBook - Pdf

Tinkering toward Utopia: A Century of Public School Reform

in American History , Educational Philosophy , Educational Policy & Reform , Educational Research & Methodology , History of Education

$34.50 $24.50

Add To Cart

ISBN :0674892836
Publisher :Harvard University Press; Revised edition
Publication Date :March 25, 1997
Language :English
Print Length :184

Tinkering toward Utopia: A Century of Public School Reform

Description: Tinkering toward Utopia: A Century of Public School Reform, written by David Tyack and Larry Cuban, provides a thoughtful and well-researched analysis of the evolution of public school reform over the past hundred years. The authors delve into the persistent efforts to improve public education, shedding light on the successes, failures, and ongoing challenges faced by the U.S. educational system.

This book examines the tension between two major goals: progressive reform aimed at creating a more democratic and child-centered system, and the consistent push for efficiency and accountability. Tyack and Cuban explore how these dual goals have led to both minor adjustments and major overhauls in policy, administration, and classroom practice. Despite countless reforms and changes, the basic structure of schooling has remained largely the same, prompting the authors to reflect on why deeper transformations have been so difficult to achieve.

Through historical analysis and contemporary examples, Tinkering toward Utopia reveals the complexity of educational change, emphasizing that while reform is necessary and often beneficial, it is also fraught with unintended consequences and challenges. The authors encourage readers to consider how small, consistent changes, or “tinkering,” can lead to meaningful improvements in the long term.

Key Features:

Historical Analysis: Offers a comprehensive look at 100 years of public school reform in the United States.
Educational Reform: Highlights the ongoing struggle between progressive ideals and the demands for efficiency and accountability in schools.
Insightful Commentary: Written by two of the most respected historians of education, David Tyack and Larry Cuban.
Practical Lessons: Encourages small, continuous improvements (“tinkering”) as a means of achieving long-term reform.

Instant eBook Delivery – Study Anywhere, Anytime

Get immediate access to Tinkering toward Utopia: A Century of Public School Reform in PDF format. After payment, you’ll receive an email containing the download link, ensuring instant access to this insightful book right on your device, anytime, anywhere.