I'll probably start believing in more conspiracy theories after this ... initially I thought "makers" were the nuts-and-bolts-set-up-the-business end of the system guys and the "innovators" were those visionaries and creative types. You know, someone had to bankroll the start-up of education. But now the makers seem sinister because of their capitalist, repressive purposes. On the other hand, they were brilliant capitalists without any altruistic tendencies ... and we think we just invented this selfish, greedy attitude in recent times!
So the innovators are the good guys, right? Well, not so fast. Not all of them.
Here are my two favorite education figures:
INNOVATOR:
Deborah Meier (1931 - ) Meier dared shake things up in urban schools by knowing her students and daring to create a brand new school based on her beliefs of a family-oriented parent and teacher run school based on democratic ideals with involved adults and respect for children while holding them to responsible levels. Meier speaks out against state-mandated tests. Why people like Meier are in the minority, I don't know, but her voice is respected. If you look at her homepage (link below) you will read that she advocates for equity in education and serves on boards, teaches at NYU, and has published at least five books. Those are just some of her accomplishments. 40 years and counting ...
http://www.deborahmeier.com/aboutme.htm
MAKER:
Andrew Carnegie (1835-1919) Carnegie was a doer and a shaker. He worked hard to make opportunities for himself, with little education, and I like his rags-to-riches story. While he profited from those who worked for him, he created a win-win situation that lasted long after his death. He used his core beliefs in hard work, his business acumen, and his belief in philanthropy to establish trusts that award those working toward peace, the arts, education, and other worthwhile missions. The Carnegie Foundation works to advance teaching by supporting policy and research. Carnegie had a huge impact on education and probably attitudes toward helping the poor help themselves that lasts today.
http://www.carnegieinstitution.org/carnegiemedal/background.html
I agree with you.
ReplyDeleteDo you see Gatto as positive at all? As I read it seems as if he hates everything about education.
What do you see?
He is very negative. Almost to the point of being paranoid. But he makes some very valid points. I think like everything, we must sift through what is said, check the facts, and do what he wants students to do- question what we are being told.
ReplyDeleteI believe that Gatto, like so many other career educators, is frustrated by the spinning wheels of education that never seem to go anywhere. His negativity aside, he makes several very valid points - at least thus far in my reading - and is openly discussing the serious issues that are too often ignored. I was discussing his criticisms with our school's Exemplary Educator today, and he actually agreed with many of Gatto's thoughts.
ReplyDeleteYes, Gatto is quite negative, however, I selected the book to get you thinking! I think that in Gatto's career he has had much "bad mojo!"
ReplyDelete