Exploring Education and Childhood: From current certainties to new visions (Understanding Primary Education)

Education has become dominated by testing, standards, interventions, strategies and political policy. Yet while elements such as these are important, Exploring Education and Childhood contends it is childhood - including its sociology and psychology - that is the vital holistic context for teaching and learning.

Written by a team of specialists who bring both experience of classroom teaching, teacher training, and of rigorous research and scholarship, each chapter examines a topic that is of vital importance to teaching and the work of teachers. The book explores examples of educational practice that illuminate contemporary problems and future possibilities for education; develops educational theory to better understand practice and policy; and critically evaluates education policy in the international context. With an emphasis on reflection and deep thinking - something that all the best teachers are able to do - key issues in the book include:

• the voice of the child
• metacognitive strategies
• agency, pedagogy and curriculum
• performativity, standards, and school readiness
• educational settings and new technology
• teacher expertise and agency
• diversity and child agency
• families, society and school choice.

Illustrated with powerful examples of practice, together with key questions for reflection and further reading, Exploring Education and Childhood challenges education professionals, policy makers, and all peple with an interest in education to envision a new future. It will be essential reading for all student teachers and teachers, and is particular appropriate for Masters-level research, professional studies, Education Studies.

Dominic Wyse is Professor of Early Childhood and Primary Education at University College London, Institute of Education (IOE), UK.

Rosemary Davis is Visiting Professorial Fellow at University College London, Institute of Education (IOE), UK.

Phil Jones is Professor of Early Years and Primary Education at University College London, Institute of Education (IOE), UK.

Sue Rogers is Professor of Early Years Education and currently Head of Early Years and Primary Education at University College London, Institute of Education (IOE), UK.