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Dr. John L. Puckett
and
Dr. Michael Charles Johanek
Discover what shapes how we talk about schools today by exploring the history of U.S. education reform. Engage with the main actors, key decisions, and major turning points in this history. See how social forces drive reform. Learn about how the critical tensions embedded in U.S. education policy and practice apply to schools nationally, globally— and where you live.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
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Syllabus
The Colonial Period and Early Republic
This module looks at the sources of education in Colonial America; factors that motivated the acquisition of literacy in the colonies; formal educational institutions of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries; post-Revolution republican visions of free public schools; characteristics of elementary schools in the early Republic; and Benjamin Franklin’s Philadelphia Academy.
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Syllabus
The Colonial Period and Early Republic
This module looks at the sources of education in Colonial America; factors that motivated the acquisition of literacy in the colonies; formal educational institutions of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries; post-Revolution republican visions of free public schools; characteristics of elementary schools in the early Republic; and Benjamin Franklin’s Philadelphia Academy.
Read more
The National Period
This module takes up the accelerating market economy between 1815 and 1850; the Second Great Awakening and its spur to social innovations; Horace Mann’s paean for “common” schools; Whigs and the common school movement; Catholic opposition to common schools; the suppression of black literacy in the antebellum South; and nineteenth-century academies.
Postbellum Period
This module considers the post-Civil War expansion of the common school and the reality behind the myth of the “Little Red Schoolhouse”; the educational gains made by blacks during the Reconstruction period and the limits white supremacists put on blacks’ educational progress after Reconstruction; the Hampton/Tuskegee model of industrial education for blacks and the role of northern industrial philanthropists; Plessy v. Ferguson and Jim Crow schooling in the South; the Carlisle Indian School; and the early progress of the American high school.
The Progressive Era
This module looks at the Progressive movement writ large; the U.S. settlement movement as a source of urban school reform; the changes “administrative progressives” effected in the governance of urban school districts; the influence of the U.S. Army’s World War I intelligence- testing program on the American school system; social efficiency schooling and its theoretical foundations; the Committee of Ten, 1892–93; the Cardinal Principles of Secondary Education, 1918; and Booker T.Washington and W.E.B. DuBois.
John Dewey and the Pedagogical Progressives
This module takes up the major characteristics of Dewey’s Laboratory School at the University of Chicago, 1896–1904; the role of reflective thinking in Dewey’s theory of knowledge; Dewey’s conception of the school as a social center; Dewey’s disengagement from public schools after 1904; William Heard Kilpatrick and the pedagogical progressives’ distortion of Dewey’s theory; and the cornerstones of Dewey’s educational philosophy.
The Depression Era
This module looks at the New Deal’s contribution to the education of American youth; the impact of the Great Depression on education; social reconstruction and the schools; schools as social centers, community centers, and community schools; the Nambé School, New Mexico; the Arthurdale School, West Virginia; and Benjamin Franklin High School, East Harlem.
Post-World War II
This module takes up the Cold War and education; the conservative attack on “life adjustment education”; McCarthyism and the New York City schools; federally sponsored New Curricula, late 1950s–1960s; the “radical romanticists”; the post-Brown struggle for racially integrated schools; the Ocean Hill–Brownsville conflict; and Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.
Post-1983
This final module addresses the rise of school choice and charter schools; markers of the evolving (expanded) federal role toward standards and accountability in public schools; significant reauthorizations of Title I of the 1965 Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA); the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) of 2002; the critique of charter schools; school district portfolios of school choice; Teach for America and others markers of teaching as a semi-profession; and post-NCLB developments, including Race to the Top, Common Core Standards, and online learning.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Delves into the history of U.S. education reform, offering a comprehensive survey of the field
Examines the Colonial Period and Early Republic, providing historical context for the development of education in the United States
Explores the role of social forces in driving educational reform throughout U.S. history
Taught by Dr. John L. Puckett and Dr. Michael Charles Johanek, both recognized scholars in the field of education
Analyzes key decisions and major turning points in U.S. education reform, providing insights into the evolution of the educational system
May be particularly relevant for educators, policymakers, and those interested in the history and development of education in the United States
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Reviews summary
Highly rated education reform course
learners say this course is an engaging and informative overview of American education reform. According to students, it covers the history, policies, and practices of education reform in the US. Learners appreciate the easy-to-understand lectures and helpful assessments that allow them to apply their knowledge to their own experiences. Overall, the course is well-received and students find it valuable for improving their understanding of education reform.
Diverse perspectives from international students
"I am from Latin America and, at first, was hesitant to take these course since it focused on the US. However, since a lot of students came from other countries, the forums were filled with comparisons between education systems all over the world."
Assessments help apply knowledge
"The assessments are helpful to actually use your knowledge by refering to your own experiences."
Easy to understand lectures
"The lectures are easy to understand..."
"This was a great course! I enjoyed the easy-going "lectures" that covered the important aspects of each time period."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in American Education Reform: History, Policy, Practice with these
activities:
Review your notes from previous coursework or study materials on the history of education
Show steps
Refresh your memory on key concepts and events in the history of American education, ensuring a strong foundation.
Show steps
-
Gather your notes from previous coursework or study materials on the history of education.
-
Review the notes, focusing on key concepts and events.
Participate in an online quiz on the history of American education
Show steps
Test your knowledge of the history of American education in a fun and engaging way.
Show steps
-
Find an online quiz on the history of American education.
-
Take the quiz.
Compile a list of resources on the history of American education
Show steps
Create a useful resource for your learning by organizing and gathering relevant materials on the history of American education.
Show steps
-
Identify credible websites, books, and articles on the history of American education.
-
Compile these resources into a list, organized by topic or era.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Watch video lecture on the history of American education
Show steps
Become familiar with the key concepts and events in the history of American education.
Show steps
-
Find a video lecture on the history of American education.
-
Watch the video lecture.
-
Take notes on the key concepts and events.
Read Horace Mann's 'Seventh Annual Report'
Show steps
Gain insights into Horace Mann's views on education and his role in shaping the common school movement.
View
Melania
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Find a copy of Horace Mann's 'Seventh Annual Report'.
-
Read the report carefully.
-
Summarize Mann's main arguments.
Write a brief essay on the impact of the Progressive Era on American education
Show steps
Develop a deeper understanding of the Progressive Era's influence on educational practices and theories.
Show steps
-
Research the Progressive Era and its impact on education.
-
Develop a thesis statement for your essay.
-
Write your essay, supporting your thesis with evidence from your research.
Attend a workshop on the history of American education
Show steps
Engage with experts and fellow learners to deepen your understanding of the history of American education in a structured and interactive setting.
Show steps
-
Find a workshop on the history of American education.
-
Register for the workshop.
-
Attend the workshop and actively participate in discussions.
Review your notes from previous coursework or study materials on the history of education
Show steps
Refresh your memory on key concepts and events in the history of American education, ensuring a strong foundation.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather your notes from previous coursework or study materials on the history of education.
- Review the notes, focusing on key concepts and events.
Participate in an online quiz on the history of American education
Show steps
Test your knowledge of the history of American education in a fun and engaging way.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find an online quiz on the history of American education.
- Take the quiz.
Compile a list of resources on the history of American education
Show steps
Create a useful resource for your learning by organizing and gathering relevant materials on the history of American education.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify credible websites, books, and articles on the history of American education.
- Compile these resources into a list, organized by topic or era.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Watch video lecture on the history of American education
Show steps
Become familiar with the key concepts and events in the history of American education.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a video lecture on the history of American education.
- Watch the video lecture.
- Take notes on the key concepts and events.
Read Horace Mann's 'Seventh Annual Report'
Show steps
Gain insights into Horace Mann's views on education and his role in shaping the common school movement.
View
Melania
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a copy of Horace Mann's 'Seventh Annual Report'.
- Read the report carefully.
- Summarize Mann's main arguments.
Write a brief essay on the impact of the Progressive Era on American education
Show steps
Develop a deeper understanding of the Progressive Era's influence on educational practices and theories.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research the Progressive Era and its impact on education.
- Develop a thesis statement for your essay.
- Write your essay, supporting your thesis with evidence from your research.
Attend a workshop on the history of American education
Show steps
Engage with experts and fellow learners to deepen your understanding of the history of American education in a structured and interactive setting.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a workshop on the history of American education.
- Register for the workshop.
- Attend the workshop and actively participate in discussions.
Career center
Learners who complete American Education Reform: History, Policy, Practice will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Historian
Historian
A Historian interprets, analyzes, and publishes historical documents, events, and patterns to help us understand the past. As a Historian, you will need to understand the relationship between the past and the present. This course can help you develop a deep understanding of how the American education system evolved over time. This understanding will be invaluable to you as you seek to provide insights into current educational issues.
Education Policy Analyst
Education Policy Analyst
An Education Policy Analyst researches, develops, and evaluates education policies in order to meet the needs of students and improve educational outcomes. As an Education Policy Analyst, you will need to understand the history of educational reform and have the critical thinking skills needed to analyze and evaluate policies. This course will help you build the foundation you need to succeed in this role.
Teacher
Teacher
A Teacher develops and implements lesson plans, teaches and instructs students, and assesses and evaluates student learning. As a Teacher, you will need to understand how to effectively teach students from diverse backgrounds and with different learning styles. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an effective Teacher.
School Administrator
School Administrator
A School Administrator plans, directs, and coordinates the educational programs of a school or school system. As a School Administrator, you will need to have a deep understanding of educational policy and practice. This course will help you develop the knowledge and skills you need to be an effective School Administrator.
Curriculum Developer
Curriculum Developer
A Curriculum Developer designs and develops educational materials, including textbooks, lesson plans, and online courses. As a Curriculum Developer, you will need to understand the history of educational reform and the different theories of learning. This course will help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an effective Curriculum Developer.
Educational Researcher
Educational Researcher
An Educational Researcher conducts research to improve educational practice. As an Educational Researcher, you will need to have a strong understanding of educational policy and practice. This course will help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an effective Educational Researcher.
Education Consultant
Education Consultant
An Education Consultant provides advice and support to schools and school districts on a variety of educational issues. As an Education Consultant, you will need to have a deep understanding of educational policy and practice. This course will help you develop the knowledge and skills you need to be an effective Education Consultant.
Diversity and Inclusion Manager
Diversity and Inclusion Manager
A Diversity and Inclusion Manager develops and implements programs and initiatives to promote diversity and inclusion in an organization. As a Diversity and Inclusion Manager, you will need to understand the history of educational reform and how to create inclusive learning environments. This course will help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an effective Diversity and Inclusion Manager.
Principal
Principal
A Principal is the instructional leader of a school. As a Principal, you will need to have a deep understanding of educational policy and practice. This course will help you develop the knowledge and skills you need to be an effective Principal.
Superintendent
Superintendent
A Superintendent is the chief executive officer of a school district. As a Superintendent, you will need to have a deep understanding of educational policy and practice. This course will help you develop the knowledge and skills you need to be an effective Superintendent.
Education Lobbyist
Education Lobbyist
An Education Lobbyist advocates for educational policies and programs before government officials. As an Education Lobbyist, you will need to have a deep understanding of educational policy and practice. This course will help you develop the knowledge and skills you need to be an effective Education Lobbyist.
Education Journalist
Education Journalist
An Education Journalist investigates and reports on educational issues. As an Education Journalist, you will need to have a deep understanding of educational policy and practice. This course will help you develop the knowledge and skills you need to be an effective Education Journalist.
Education Nonprofit Executive
Education Nonprofit Executive
An Education Nonprofit Executive leads a nonprofit organization that provides educational services. As an Education Nonprofit Executive, you will need to have a deep understanding of educational policy and practice. This course will help you develop the knowledge and skills you need to be an effective Education Nonprofit Executive.
Policy Advisor
Policy Advisor
A Policy Advisor provides advice to government officials on a variety of policy issues. As a Policy Advisor, you will need to have a deep understanding of educational policy and practice. This course will help you develop the knowledge and skills you need to be an effective Policy Advisor.
Museum Educator
Museum Educator
A Museum Educator develops and implements educational programs and exhibits for a museum. As a Museum Educator, you will need to have a deep understanding of educational policy and practice. This course will help you develop the knowledge and skills you need to be an effective Museum Educator.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/0klchk/american
Reading list
We've selected 12 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
American Education Reform: History, Policy, Practice.
Save
Provides a historical overview of educational reform in the United States, from the colonial period to the present day. It valuable resource for understanding the origins and evolution of the current education system.
Examines the achievement gap between white students and students of color in the United States. Noguera argues that the gap is due to a variety of factors, including poverty, segregation, and discrimination. He offers a number of policy recommendations to address the gap.
Argues that the federal education system is failing America's children. Allen proposes a number of reforms to improve the system, including school choice and increased accountability for teachers and administrators.
Save
Argues that the traditional model of education is no longer effective in preparing students for the 21st century. Postman proposes a new model of education that focuses on critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.
Save
Argues that the American education system is designed to produce docile and obedient workers. Gatto proposes a number of alternative educational models that he believes would be more effective in preparing students for life.
Examines the education systems of Finland, South Korea, and Poland, which are all consistently ranked among the best in the world. Ripley identifies a number of factors that contribute to the success of these systems, including high-quality teaching, a focus on student engagement, and a culture of high expectations.
Save
Argues that the American education system is not preparing students for the challenges of the 21st century. Wagner proposes a number of reforms to improve the system, including a focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.
Save
Provides a historical overview of urban education in the United States. Tyack examines the evolution of the American urban school system, from its origins in the early republic to the present day.
Examines the history of education reform in the United States. Ravitch argues that the current reform movement is based on a number of flawed assumptions, and she proposes a number of alternative approaches to improving the education system.
Save
Examines the history of racial segregation in the United States. Rothstein argues that the federal government has played a major role in creating and maintaining segregation.
Collection of essays by Baldwin on race and racism in America. Baldwin writes about the history of racism in the United States, the impact of racism on black people, and the need for change.
Collection of essays by Du Bois on race and racism in America. Du Bois writes about the history of racism in the United States, the impact of racism on black people, and the need for change.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/0klchk/american
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University of Pennsylvania
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Dr. John L. Puckett
Dr. Michael Charles Johanek
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Good to know
Delves into the history of U.S. education reform, offering a comprehensive survey of the field
Examines the Colonial Period and Early Republic, providing historical context for the development of education in the United States
Explores the role of social forces in driving educational reform throughout U.S. history
Taught by Dr. John L. Puckett and Dr. Michael Charles Johanek, both recognized scholars in the field of education
Analyzes key decisions and major turning points in U.S. education reform, providing insights into the evolution of the educational system
May be particularly relevant for educators, policymakers, and those interested in the history and development of education in the United States
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