Redesigning Student Learning in Secondary School: Enhancing the Teacher and Student Experience

Redesigning Student Learning in Secondary Schools offers an accessible account of developments in secondary schooling in western countries over the past 150 years, questioning why so little has changed and introducing examples of and proposals for significant shifts from traditional practices.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 06 April 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Redesigning Student Learning in Secondary Schools is a comprehensive and accessible account of developments in secondary schooling in Western countries over the past 150 years. It raises important questions about why there has been so little change in these systems and offers examples of and proposals for significant shifts from traditional practices. The book is structured into three parts:

Part 1: Tracing the Evolution of Mass Secondary Schooling Systems
In this part, the author explores the evolution of mass secondary schooling systems and how they have shaped the student and teacher experience. The author discusses the rise of compulsory education, the expansion of school systems, and the development of standardized testing. The author also examines how these systems have marginalized certain groups of students, such as those with disabilities or from low-income backgrounds.

Part 2: Restructuring Systems to Accommodate the Whole Student Population
In this part, the author discusses how system restructuring has attempted to accommodate the whole student population. The author notes that some managers have invested more heavily in market principles, while others have placed greater trust in teachers to deliver high-quality standards in basic skills. The author also explores how system restructuring has led to the creation of new roles for teachers, such as instructional coaches or data analysts, and how these roles have impacted the teaching-learning process.

Part 3: Examples of System and School Redesign
In this part, the author introduces various examples of how system and school redesign have been attempted in recent years. The author argues for a 'service model of schooling' that emphasizes the importance of collaboration between teachers and students to identify and achieve learning goals. The author also discusses the adoption of technology to transform the teaching-learning process and empower students to have more input into their own topic choice. The author provides examples of how schools have implemented these redesign strategies, such as project-based learning, personalized learning, and competency-based education.

Proposals for How to Undertake Redesign
In addition to discussing examples of system and school redesign, the author also offers proposals for how to undertake redesign. The author suggests that schools should focus on creating a culture of innovation and collaboration, investing in professional development for teachers, and providing resources and support to students. The author also emphasizes the importance of engaging parents and the community in the redesign process and of measuring and evaluating the impact of redesign efforts.

This book is of interest to secondary school educators, school leaders, and managers. It provides valuable insights into the current state of secondary schooling and offers practical strategies for redesigning systems to better meet the needs of all students. By exploring the evolution of mass secondary schooling systems, the impact of system restructuring, and examples of successful redesign, this book provides a roadmap for creating more equitable and effective learning environments.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367428372