PAM 2550 - Waiting for Superman: Perspectives on the Crisis in American Education

(crosslisted) AMST 2560
(SBA-HE)

Spring. 3 credits. Letter grades only.

M. Fitzpatrick.

This course examines the widespread perception and the varied responses to the notion that the American education system is failing to adequately prepare its students. We review the structure of the U.S. education system, the role of government in school finance and oversight, and its performance in historical and international context. With this background, we review evidence on a large array of school reforms currently in vogue, including increases in funding, teacher training and recruitment, school autonomy (charter schools), student and teacher accountability, and improving incentives for teacher and student performance.

Outcome 1: Students will become familiar with some of the most important policy issues related to primary and secondary education in the United States.

Outcome 2: Students will think critically about the pros and cons of various proposals to address these issues.

Outcome 3: Students will be familiar with research evidence evaluating several prominent education interventions.