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The Teacher Wars: A History Of America's Most Embattled Profession (2014)

by Dana Goldstein(Favorite Author)

4.19 of 5 Votes: 3

ISBN

038553695X (ISBN13: 9780385536950)

languge

English

genre

History & Biography

publisher

Doubleday

review 1: Dana Goldstein’s "The Teacher Wars: A History of America’s Most Embattled Profession" reminds us that we ignore history at our peril. Who in living memory is aware that standardized testing with outcomes linked to teacher job security has been tried before? If it didn’t work then, why are we trying it again? From the launch of the teacher union movement, to the rise of community control, to the great business takeover, here are startling truths that cast these actions in a new light. Movements for change, be they ever so passionate, derail when children’s well-being is no longer the focus. When do teachers teach well? When they’re supported and mentored by experienced colleagues who want them to succeed. When did America excel at learning? When children’s needs... more were addressed beyond the classroom.
review 2: Dana Goldstein writes an impressive history of teaching in America, beginning with the "missionary teachers" of the nation's early years, right through to the present day debates of No Child Left Behind, Value Added Measurements, Charter Schools, and Teach for America and it's progeny. It was really helpful to place the current debates in historical context. Goldstein tries to place her own opinions aside and present many viewpoints on the various debates. She saves her opinions for the epilogue. Even that seemed balanced and sensible in the light of the data she provides in the preceding pages.Much of the debate over recent years seems to be about testing and standards. It seems to me that we're confusing the thermometer with the thermostat. The thermostat sets the temperature, the thermometer just reports it. That's all testing can do; report the status. Too often people seem to have sensed that testing alone is enough, but it takes innovation and good solid teaching to move those test scores.A really helpful overview. Highly recommended. less

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