, Question 1 (Unit 2) (25)
a) Explanation of neoliberalism (300 words).
The term "neoliberalism" refers to an economic and political philosophy that advocates for
minimal government intervention in the market and emphasizes individual freedoms, free-
market capitalism, and deregulation. In the context of education, neoliberalism has
significantly shaped policies and practices, influencing the way educational research is
conducted and interpreted.
Neoliberalism in education is characterized by a focus on standardization, accountability
measures, and the application of economic principles to educational systems. Sims et al.
(2018) express a desire to move away from this "tyranny of standardisation, accountability,
and economic rationality" in early childhood education. Understanding the implications of
neoliberalism on educational research is crucial for researchers aiming to navigate the
complexities of the contemporary educational landscape.
From a researcher's perspective, a critical awareness of neoliberalism prompts an
examination of how market-oriented ideologies impact the objectives, methodologies, and
outcomes of educational research. Researchers need to scrutinize the influence of
economic rationality on the educational system and question how it may shape research
agendas and priorities.
In the neoliberal context, educational research may be driven by market demands,
emphasizing outcomes that are easily measurable and economically justifiable. This
orientation may sideline the holistic development of students, as highlighted by Sims et al.
(2018), where the emphasis is on individuality, diversity, relationships, and participation.
Additionally, a critical awareness of neoliberalism encourages researchers to reflect on the
power dynamics within educational research. The pursuit of funding, often influenced by
neoliberal principles, may steer research agendas, potentially compromising the
independence and objectivity of the research process.
In conclusion, a researcher's critical awareness of the neoliberal context in education is
essential for navigating the challenges posed by market-driven ideologies. By
acknowledging and understanding the impact of neoliberalism, researchers can contribute
to the discourse on education that values the diverse needs of learners and challenges the
dominance of standardization and economic rationality. This awareness is fundamental for
maintaining the integrity and relevance of educational research in a neoliberal era.
b) The impact of neoliberalism on education (300 words).
The benefits of buying summaries with Stuvia:
Guaranteed quality through customer reviews
Stuvia customers have reviewed more than 700,000 summaries. This how you know that you are buying the best documents.
Quick and easy check-out
You can quickly pay through credit card for the summaries. There is no membership needed.
Focus on what matters
Your fellow students write the study notes themselves, which is why the documents are always reliable and up-to-date. This ensures you quickly get to the core!
Frequently asked questions
What do I get when I buy this document?
You get a PDF, available immediately after your purchase. The purchased document is accessible anytime, anywhere and indefinitely through your profile.
Satisfaction guarantee: how does it work?
Our satisfaction guarantee ensures that you always find a study document that suits you well. You fill out a form, and our customer service team takes care of the rest.
Who am I buying these notes from?
Stuvia is a marketplace, so you are not buying this document from us, but from seller itsbesttutors. Stuvia facilitates payment to the seller.
Will I be stuck with a subscription?
No, you only buy these notes for £2.26. You're not tied to anything after your purchase.
