Education reform is a series of changes in education that improve student learning and performance. It may address issues such as equity and social justice, teacher quality, and the role of technology in education. The goal is to prepare students to participate in a democratic society and compete in the global economy. Education reform can also address poverty and inequality, providing access to high-quality schools for low-income children.
The first education reform movement of the 20th century focused on standards-based curriculum, which aimed to standardize teaching methods and subject matter across all public schools and students. However, the result was often a one-size-fits-all model that didn’t fit many students.
This led to segregation based on race and socioeconomic status. This was counterproductive to the purpose of education, which is to prepare students for life and work in a diverse society. The second education reform movement is a bottom-up effort that trusts teachers to teach in their own ways and allows for greater flexibility. It also addresses the issue of poverty- and gender-based inequities.
There are several different types of education reform, including academies, charter schools, voucher programs, and magnet schools. Voucher programs give families public funding to attend private schools, and proponents argue that they promote equity by giving low-income students the chance to attend schools with a higher level of academic achievement. Magnet schools are public schools that offer specific curricula or programs, such as STEM, international studies, and arts.