Introductory description

This module will introduce students to core areas of policy contention, innovation and development within education, as practiced in the English educational system.

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

This module will introduce students to core areas of policy contention, innovation and development within education as practiced in the English educational system. The module will include the following components:

(i). Investigating how current educational policy and practice has been shaped by various education acts and understanding the historical context in which contemporary English education policy and practice has been developed.

(ii). Identifing and evaluating how major reviews of education conducted in the twentieth and twenty-first century have shaped developments in educational policy and practice. Through seminar and group discussion students will critically analyse the extent to which suggestions and ideas expressed in educational reviews have been embraced, rejected or diluted by policy makers.

(iii). Exploring policy and practice changes in relation to formal education assessment.

(iv). Critically evaluating the extent to which policy changes affect issues relating to educational equity and inequality.

(v). Exploring how social and cultural changes within English society have affected both the English education system and the design and implementation of its curriculums.

(vi) Exploring historical perspectives alongside current provision on teaching training. Critically evaluating the values that underpin contrasting approaches to teacher training.

(vii) Evaluating trends relating to the marketisation of education in England.

(viii) Considering the impacts of informal learning experiences on pupils' and students' identity as learners

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• - To understand developments in the professionalisation of teaching and the changes to professional standards experienced by education professionals.
• - To appreciate the historical context of educational policy and practice.
• - To develop understanding of the cultural and social issues affecting the present educational landscape.
• - To appraise the position of education within the political and economic landscape of England.
• - To have a critical insight into the implications of education policy on pedagogical practice.
• - To be aware of the influence of informal 'non-school' learning experiences and the impact these experiences have on learners attitudes to formal education.
• - To understand how policy relating to early years, primary and secondary education impact on how further and higher education are structured and accessed.

Indicative reading list

Generic Reading lists can be found in Talis

Specific reading list for the module can be found on

Subject specific skills

Students should demonstrate a critical understanding of

• the underlying values and concepts relevant to education
• the diversity of learners and the complexities of the education process
• the societal and organisational structures and purposes of educational systems, and the possible implications for learners and the learning process
• constructively critique theories, practice and research in the area of education.
• demonstrate a critical understanding of the interrelationships between political, economic, cultural and ideological contexts in the lives of children and their families and communities
• recognise and challenge inequalities in society, and embrace an anti-bias approach

Transferable skills

• Active listening
• Analysis and decision making
• Character/personality
• Cognitive flexibility
• Communication skills
• Complex problem solving
• Confidence
• Coordinating with others
• Creativity
• Critical thinking
• Initiative and also follow instructions
• Intellectual ability
• International cultural awareness
• Interpersonal and communication
• Judgement and decision making
• Management of learning
• Managing others/People Management
• Motivation, tenacity, commitment
• Negotiation
• Personal development skills
• Persuading/influencing
• Planning and organisational skills
• Problem solving
• Reasoning
• Self-management/resilience
• Team working