Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/urban-education
Course Overview
The course entitled Critical Issues in Urban Education, available on Coursera, dives deep into the contentious landscape of urban school reform in the United States. With a focus on critical issues surrounding the education system, this course distinguishes itself by addressing both historical and contemporary debates. The program is particularly relevant for educators, policymakers, and advocates who aim to understand the multilayered and often polarized views that govern educational policy.
Syllabus Breakdown
The course is structured to guide learners through significant reform measures and their implications:
- American Public Education: Critical Issues & Historical Context – This initial module sets the stage by unpacking the unique characteristics of public education in the U.S., emphasizing its decentralized governance.
- The No Child Left Behind Act – This section discusses the federal government’s ambitious reform effort and its contentious reception, exploring accountability, choice, and flexibility within education.
- The Common Core State Standards – Participants will evaluate the formation and impact of the Common Core, including its historical context and the public response it incited.
- School Choice and Charter Schools – By interrogating the complexities and debates surrounding school choice and charter schools, this module encourages critical thinking about educational opportunities and outcomes.
- School Accountability and Teacher Effectiveness – The course further delves into accountability measures, examining how they affect teachers, students, and schools, and how equity and quality can coexist in educational settings.
Expert Insights
A compelling feature of the course is the interviews and panel discussions with education experts from the Urban Education Institute and Chicago. These discussions provide learners with diverse perspectives, fostering a deeper understanding of the ongoing debates in urban education.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Critical Issues in Urban Education is a thought-provoking course that successfully engages participants in the significant challenges facing urban schools today. It encourages critical analysis of educational policies and practices while providing historical context that is vital for understanding current reforms.
I highly recommend this course to anyone interested in education reform, advocacy, and policy-making. It is not only informative but also essential for fostering a more equitable education system in urban areas.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/urban-education