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Subject-centered to student- centered teaching
in the late 1800s, student-centered learning gained popularity in the classroom. This was important as it recognized that many students didn't need a classical education - in fact it promoted inequity and social class. Instead, students should learn more practical knowledge in English through experiences that make sense to them. This movement also recognized that not all students learn the same way or at the same pace and it's the teacher's job to recognize this teach accordingly. -
Standardized testing
Although first used for the military in WWI, standardized testing has permeated the school system and been used to track students' achievement. Modern day education has put more emphasis on assessing student progress and ability based on test scores. Standardized test scores have been tied to school funding and teacher accountability. Arguments have been made that relying so heavily on test scores can be misleading and harmful to children's overall education. -
Brown v. Board of Education
This Supreme Court ruling is important because it stated that "'separate but equal' is inherently unequal". Therefore, it provided the groundwork to desegregate the public schools. For the first time, African American students could learn with equal resources with their white counterparts. This integration lessened the achievement gap between African American and white students; Research has shown that African American students do better in racially integrated schools. -
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
Although laws had been passed previously in 1973 and 1975, the amended version of those laws became the IDEA act which gave children with disabilities the right to a basic education that was "free and appropriate" for each child. This is important as it mandates that children with disabilities will not be ignored or denied an education. They deserve to learn and feel like they belong in society as much as any other child. -
Accountability - No Child Left Behind, Race to the Top
These federal laws attempt to hold schools and teachers accountable for the education and achievement of their students. Previously, schools had been controlled on the state/local level. These laws have tried to regulate, mainly through standardized tests, teacher quality and what the "common core" of student learning should be. These laws pressure educators and students to perform well on tests. It ignores the diversity in learning styles or the importance of creativity in the classroom.
