Neoliberalism Across Education: Policy And Practice From Early Childhood Through Adult Learning

The author examines the effects of neoliberalism on education in the UK, using England as a case study. He explores the theory and philosophy of neoliberalism and how it has been applied to the education sector, and interrogates its impact on educational practice.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 154 pages
Publication date: 27 May 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This book delves into the profound impact of neoliberalism on education in the United Kingdom. By examining policies across the sector in England as a case study, the author sheds light on and analyzes the evolution of neoliberal policy on educational models and practices. The author delves into the theoretical foundations and philosophical underpinnings of neoliberalism, providing an insightful explanation of how it has been applied to the education sector in England at various stages. Drawing upon extensive empirical research conducted in educational contexts, this book critically interrogates the consequences of neoliberalism on educational practice. It holds immense interest and value for scholars and practitioners alike, as it offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between neoliberalism and education.

Neoliberalism has had a significant impact on education in the United Kingdom. Through the examination of policies across the sector in England, the author illuminates and analyzes the development of neoliberal policy on educational models and practices. The author explores the theoretical foundations and philosophical underpinnings of neoliberalism, providing an insightful explanation of how it has been applied to the education sector in England at various stages.

Drawing upon extensive empirical research conducted in educational contexts, this book critically interrogates the consequences of neoliberalism on educational practice. It holds immense interest and value for scholars and practitioners alike, as it offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between neoliberalism and education.

Neoliberalism has transformed the education sector in the United Kingdom in numerous ways. One of the most notable impacts is the shift towards market-oriented approaches to education. Neoliberal policies have encouraged the privatization of education, with private companies and organizations playing a growing role in providing education services. This has led to increased competition and marketization of education, with schools and universities seeking to attract students and secure funding by offering a range of courses and services.

Another impact of neoliberalism on education is the emphasis on individual responsibility and choice. Neoliberal policies have promoted the idea that individuals are responsible for their own success and that they should be able to choose the education and training that best suits their needs and aspirations. This has led to the development of a more personalized and flexible education system, with students able to tailor their education to their individual interests and career goals.

However, neoliberalism has also had negative consequences for education in the United Kingdom. One of the most significant is the reduction in public funding for education. Neoliberal policies have led to cuts to public spending on education, which has resulted in a decline in the quality of education and increased inequality. Schools and universities in areas with lower funding levels have struggled to provide adequate resources and support for their students, while those in more affluent areas have benefited from better resources and facilities.

Neoliberalism has also led to the commodification of education. Education has become a product that is sold to students and parents, with schools and universities seeking to maximize their profits and market share. This has led to the development of a hierarchical education system, with some schools and universities being perceived as more prestigious and desirable than others. This has created a culture of inequality and discrimination in education, with students from disadvantaged backgrounds facing barriers to accessing high-quality education.

Furthermore, neoliberalism has led to the erosion of public control over education. Neoliberal policies have encouraged the devolution of power from the state to individual schools and universities, with schools and universities being given greater autonomy and control over their operations. This has led to a decline in the accountability and transparency of education, with schools and universities being less accountable to the public and more focused on their own interests and profits.

In conclusion, neoliberalism has had a significant impact on education in the United Kingdom. While it has brought about some positive changes, such as increased individual responsibility and choice, it has also had negative consequences, such as reduced public funding, the commodification of education, and the erosion of public control over education. It is important for policymakers and educators to be aware of the impact of neoliberalism on education and to work towards creating a more equitable and sustainable education system that prioritizes the needs of all students.

Weight: 224g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030739645
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021