Donnelly says: "One way to describe the relationship between schools and wider society is to describe education as providing a ladder of opportunity. While it is true that not all in society are as wealthy as one another or as disadvantaged in terms of what they own or where they live, education provides an avenue for advancement. Based on ability and hard work, it is possible to use education as a springboard toward success in all its guises" (Donnelly, 2007, p. 135).
Here's where those interested in social justice and education come in. Recognition that MANY students are not advantaged by wealth, what they own or where they live is of paramount importance. However, there are many other forms of educational disadvantage! While I might agree with Donnelly that education can be "a springboard toward success in all its guises", there must also be a recognition that the potential differences between these disadvantaged students and others goes far beyond the financial.
What does Donnelly mean by "success in all its guises"? In other words, what is schooling for?
Is it for producing cohorts of people with skills and knowledge to perform tasks in our society, often related to economics or 'productivity'? Is it for keeping certain types of knowledge alive (eg, Shakespeare), and thus maintaining a cultural heritage? Is it for producing people who can adapt to various situations, thinking for themselves through the skills of analysis, critique and questioning? Is it for producing people who are in themselves content with the way they interact with the world, and want to be part of enacting world change?
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Mini, I am so glad that you have a site that discusses these issues!
I just stumbled across it, and I really want to say something.
I wasn't very good at school over all, but I care about the environment. I learned a lot about this in science and geography, so I have a very good understanding of the things that affect my world. What I'd like to do is work in this area. I'd like to work as an environmental activist. I don't intend to get a degree, or even a diploma. I'd probably have to get government assistance because
the only job I can get that would make me happy is a part-time one. To me, this would be a success.
Society says there's something wrong with that, but for me, there's nothing wrong with that. I just want to make the world a better place!
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