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23 Myths about the History of American Schools: What the Truth Can Tell Us, and Why It Matters

Authors :
Sherman Dorn
David A. Gamson
Sherman Dorn
David A. Gamson
Source :
Teachers College Press. 2024.
Publication Year :
2024

Abstract

In this fascinating collection, some of the foremost historians of education--including Barbara Beatty, Larry Cuban, Linda Eisenmann, Yoon K. Pak, John L. Rury, and Jonathan Zimmerman--debunk commonly held myths about American schooling. Each short, readable chapter focuses on one myth, explaining what the "real" history is and how it helped shape education today. Contributors take on a host of tall tales, including the supposed agrarian origins of summer vacation; exaggerated stories of declining student behavior and academic performance; persistent claims that some people are born to be teachers; idealistic notions that the 1954 "Brown" decision ended segregation in American schools; misleading beliefs that classrooms operate in ways designed to fit the industrial era; and more. "23 Myths About the History of American Schools" will awaken the inner history nerd of everyone who ever asked, "How did we get this irrational school system?" It will affirm the truth that its readers are as entitled to think critically about schooling as anyone else. Book Features: (1) Examines how the history of American education has been distorted and misrepresented, either intentionally or unintentionally; (2) Provides important stories that can help guide discussion about the future of education; (3) Anticipates what local and state politicians are likely to say (and misstate) about schooling. (4) Provides engaging chapters that highlight why real history is important and more fascinating than the myths; and (5) Accessible to a wide range of readers from undergraduates to career educators.

Details

Language :
English
ISBN :
978-0-8077-6927-0
ISBNs :
978-0-8077-6927-0
Database :
ERIC
Journal :
23 Myths about the History of American Schools: What the Truth Can Tell Us, and Why It Matters
Publication Type :
Book
Accession number :
ED650294
Document Type :
Book