Quest for Revolution in Australian Schooling Policy

The book examines the impacts of 'grand designs' in public policy through a historical analysis of Australian schooling reforms since the late 2000s. It argues that the education revolution sought to impose a new order on Australian schooling by aligning state and territory systems to common policies and processes. The book uses a theory and critique of 'alignment thinking in public policy' to show how the education revolution and subsequent reforms have been underpinned by uncritical faith in the power of nationally aligned data, evidence, and standards to improve policies and unite systems around practices 'proven to work.' The result is a new national policy assemblage that has deeply reshaped the making and doing of schooling policy in the nation, generating complex questions about who is steering the ship of education into the future.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 170 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book delves into the profound impacts of 'grand designs' in public policy through a comprehensive historical analysis of Australian schooling reforms since the introduction of the 'education revolution agenda' by the federal government in the late 2000s. Combining policy analyses and in-depth interviews with senior policy makers and ministerial advisors directly involved in these reforms, it offers a detailed interpretive analysis of the intricate complexities of policy evolution and assemblage. The central argument of the book is that the education revolution aimed to establish a new order in Australian schooling by harmonizing state and territory systems towards common policies and processes in areas such as curriculum, assessment, funding, reporting, and teaching. Drawing upon a theory and critique of 'alignment thinking' in public policy, Savage demonstrates how the education revolution and subsequent reforms have been underpinned by an uncritical belief in the power of nationally aligned data, evidence, and standards to improve policies and bring systems together around practices deemed 'proven to work.' As a result, a new national policy assemblage has emerged, reshaping the very fabric of schooling policy in the nation and raising profound questions about who is steering the ship of education into the future.
The Quest for Revolution in Australian Schooling Policy is a vital resource for education policy researchers, policymakers, education ministers, and school leaders. It will also captivate anyone with an interest in the intricate power dynamics that shape schooling reforms. By examining the historical trajectory of Australian schooling reforms, this book provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the education sector, offering valuable lessons for policymakers and educators alike.

Weight: 278g
Dimension: 154 x 234 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367681876