DLedingham wrote, in part:
> Our school received today a set of Government inspired targets for
> examination result improvements over the next 3 years. For example, the
> percentage of our 15-16 year olds who gain 5 or more passes should
> increase by 6%. There are a number of similar targets each of which
> specifies a minimum improvement for the school within that 3 year period.
>
> My problem is that these externally imposed targets have the potential to
> reaffirm teachers perceptions that they are not in a position of self
> determination and that a 'Theory X' style of management, which regards the
> workforce as essentially untrustworthy and in need of external control, is
> in predominance.
And, indeed, the teachers are right. Wrapping it in the "candy" of a
learning organization does not change the fact that the external forces
have needs which they have imposed on the production workers called
teachers to improve the quality of the product they are turning out.
As we say in the states, if it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck,
it is a duck
Next, if this is a learning organization, then, perhaps, the students
who are 15-16 as you have stated, should be included in the discussion.
After all, it is those students who have to learn and meet these
standards and should be part of the decision process
And, finally, perhaps the schools should look closely at what they are
teaching and why. It looks like the schools, under an external mandate,
are to turn out parts for the production line of industry rather than
thenking individuals who will contribute to a larger society as
productive citizens. Perhaps it is time that the education systems,
globally ask the question as to what their roll really is- are they
preparing students for the political states, or for the transnational
corporate states?
cheers
tom abeles
--tom abeles <tabeles@tmn.com>
Learning-org -- Hosted by Rick Karash <rkarash@karash.com> Public Dialog on Learning Organizations -- <http://www.learning-org.com>