,RSE 4801 ASS 6
Consider this quotation from Sims et al. (2018):
Our dream is to steer early childhood away from the tyranny of standardisation, accountability
and economic rationality into a space where children are valued for being, where individuality and
diversity flourish, where learning academics is one (relatively unimportant) element amongst
many others and where relationships and participation (and dare we say, happiness) reign
supreme.
In your view as a researcher, how could a critical awareness of the neoliberal context of education
influence educational research? Your response must include the following:
a) Explanation of neoliberalism (300 words).
b) The impact of neoliberalism on education (300 words).
c) The problem statement and research questions of a research project in education (300words)
a) Neoliberalism is an economic and political ideology that emphasizes free markets, limited
government intervention, and individual responsibility. In this context, education is seen as a
commodity and is influenced by market forces. Neoliberal policies promote competition,
efficiency, and productivity, often at the expense of social equity and welfare. Education is valued
for its economic outcomes, such as enhancing human capital and employability.
Neoliberalism in education is characterized by several key features. First, there is a focus on
standardization and accountability, where schools and teachers are evaluated based on
standardized test scores and measurable outcomes. This emphasis on quantifiable results can
narrow the curriculum and lead to teaching aimed solely at test preparation.
Second, neoliberalism promotes the idea of economic rationality, where educational decisions are
driven by economic considerations and the pursuit of efficiency. This can result in the
prioritization of subjects and skills that are perceived as directly relevant to the labour market,
while neglecting other areas of education that may have less economic value but are crucial for
holistic development.
Third, neoliberalism contributes to the marketization and privatization of education. It encourages
competition between schools, the introduction of market-like mechanisms, such as school choice
and performance-based funding, and the involvement of private actors in education provision.
This can lead to increased inequalities, as those with more resources and access to private
education have an advantage over those who rely on underfunded public schools.
In the context of educational research, a critical awareness of the neoliberal context can have
several implications. Researchers can examine the effects of neoliberal policies on educational
outcomes, equity, and the curriculum. They can explore alternative approaches that prioritize
individuality, diversity, and holistic development, rather than solely focusing on economic
outcomes.
Researchers can also investigate the impact of marketization and privatization on educational
access, quality, and equity. They can critically analyse the role of standardized testing and
, accountability measures in shaping educational practices and outcomes. Additionally, researchers
can explore the importance of relationships, participation, and well-being in education and
highlight the potential negative consequences of an overemphasis on economic rationality.
By critically engaging with the neoliberal context of education, researchers can contribute to the
development of more inclusive, equitable, and student-centred educational policies and practices.
They can challenge the dominant neoliberal paradigm and advocate for approaches that value the
well-being and individuality of learners.
b) Neoliberalism has had a significant impact on education, shaping policies, practices, and the
overall educational landscape. Understanding the neoliberal context of education is crucial for
researchers as it provides insight into the underlying ideologies and forces that influence
educational systems. Here are some key impacts of neoliberalism on education:
1. Marketization and privatization: Neoliberalism promotes the introduction of market-like
mechanisms in education, such as school choice and competition. This has led to the privatization
of education, with the involvement of private actors in educational provision. Private schools and
for-profit institutions have emerged, leading to increased inequalities in access and quality of
education.
2. Standardization and accountability: Neoliberal policies prioritize standardization and
accountability measures, often measured through standardized tests and performance indicators.
This focus on measurable outcomes has led to a narrowing of the curriculum and an overemphasis
on test preparation, as schools and teachers are driven to meet targets and benchmarks. The
pursuit of accountability can restrict teachers' autonomy and creativity, reducing the focus on
holistic education.
3. Economic rationality: Neoliberalism promotes the idea of economic rationality in education,
where decisions are driven by economic considerations and the pursuit of efficiency. Education is
viewed as an investment in human capital and is valued for its economic outcomes, such as
increasing employability. This economic focus can lead to a devaluation of subjects and skills that
do not have direct economic value, neglecting the importance of broader personal and social
development.
4. Inequality and social stratification: Neoliberal policies can exacerbate educational inequalities.
Market-based mechanisms such as school choice can advantage those with more resources,
leaving disadvantaged students and underfunded schools behind. The commodification of
education can perpetuate social stratification, where access to quality education becomes
contingent on financial means.
5. Shift in educational goals: Neoliberalism has shifted the goals of education towards the
development of a skilled workforce to meet economic demands. The focus on measurable
outcomes and economic rationality has overshadowed the broader goals of education, such as
promoting critical thinking, creativity, and civic engagement. This narrow focus can hinder the
development of well-rounded individuals.
