First Episodes: Pupil Careers in the Early Years of School

First Episodes: Pupil Careers in the Early Years of School is a 1991 book that examines the social construction of pupil careers in the dynamics of classroom life. It suggests that teachers operate fundamental distinctions between 'normal and 'abnormal pupils and between the episodic and the trans-episodic in their constructions of reality. It recommends a move away from the more usual notion of rule-transgression and its related 'societal reactions and suggests that the role rather than the rule is critical to the perception of deviation and the formulation of pupils in early schooling.

Format: Hardback
Length: 276 pages
Publication date: 21 November 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

First Episodes: Pupil Careers in the Early Years of School, originally published in 1991, is a groundbreaking work that delves into the intricate social construction of pupil careers during the early years of school. Conducted over a four-year longitudinal study, this research explores the dynamics of classroom life and aims to understand how pupils' careers are shaped. Through qualitative methodologies such as depth interviewing and 'naturalistic observation, the book provides a rich account of the formation of pupils over the first four years of schooling.

One of the key aspects of the study is the attention given to the longitudinal and continuing process in the formation of pupils. The authors emphasize the moment-by-moment processes of formulation as episodes follow one another in the rapid flow of classroom life. They suggest that teachers operate fundamental distinctions between 'normal' and 'abnormal' pupils and between the episodic and the trans-episodic in their constructions of reality.

Central to the analysis is the notion of 'relativity in the placement of boundaries in interpersonal relations. The authors argue that the casting of pupils within the framework of role (i.e., other-role) is a central process at both episodic and trans-episodic levels. This suggests that the role a pupil plays in classroom interactions is crucial in shaping their perception of deviation and their development.

The book makes a significant recommendation for a shift away from the more usual notion of rule-transgression and its related 'societal reactions' prevalent in the literature on deviance. Instead, it emphasizes the role of the role as the critical factor in the perception of deviation and the formulation of pupils in early schooling. The authors suggest that teachers should focus on the dynamics of role rather than the strict adherence to rules, as this can lead to more effective and inclusive teaching practices.

In exploring temporal processes of 'emergence,' the book highlights the ongoing tension between the episodic and the trans-episodic in teachers' formulations of children. It suggests that teachers continuously navigate between different perspectives and frameworks as they construct present reality, sometimes emphasizing continuity and other times disconti. This tension reflects the complex and multifaceted nature of the classroom environment and the challenges teachers face in shaping pupils.

Overall, First Episodes: Pupil Careers in the Early Years of School is a seminal work that offers valuable insights into the social construction of pupil careers in the early years of school. Through its comprehensive analysis and thoughtful recommendations, the book contributes to our understanding of the complex processes that shape students' educational trajectories and their development as individuals. It is a must-read for educators, policymakers, and researchers interested in the field of education.

Weight: 675g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032357911