Versions of Primary Education

This insightful book examines the evolution of primary education through five studies, exploring the shift from the Plowden era to the National Curriculum and its implications.

The book Versions of Primary Education delves into five significant studies that cover the transformative years from the mid-1980s to the mid-1990s. During this period, primary teachers began to challenge the prevailing educational ideas and practices that had dominated the previous two decades. The introduction of the National Curriculum marked a pivotal shift, propelling educators from the established Plowden era into a new educational landscape. This book captures the essence of that transition and the complexities it introduced to primary education.

Each of the first four studies in Versions of Primary Education focuses on different aspects of primary teaching, highlighting the unique dilemmas and practices that teachers faced during this dynamic time. The studies emphasize the interactions between teachers and students, which are central to the learning process. By exploring various approaches to classroom research, the book raises enduring educational questions that transcend specific policies or trends, offering insights that remain relevant today.

The final study broadens the scope by providing a historical context for understanding the intricate blend of change and continuity that defines English primary education. It invites readers to reflect on how past influences shape current practices and policies, making Versions of Primary Education a valuable resource for educators and researchers alike, seeking to comprehend the evolution of primary education in England.