A place called school: Prospects for the future (A Study of schooling in the United States)

This is an account of the largest on-the-scene study of U.S. schools ever undertaken. Called 'A Study of Schooling' and carried on over 4 years, trained investigators went into more than 1,000 classrooms in 38 elementary and secondary schools in seven different sections of the United States. These schools were located in urban, rural, and suburban areas. The investigators talked to teachers, students, administrators, school board officials, parents, and other members of the community. The result is this landmark report, written by one of the country's most astute and experienced educators. His message is one of cautious optimism, despite the extensive problems uncovered, and he provides a realistic agenda for improvement. This report will be a rich and stimulating resource for all those concerned with the education of our youth.

A landmark study from one of the nation's top educators

First published 20 years ago, A Place Called School is the revolutionary account of the largest on-scene study of U.S. schools ever conducted. Data were gathered from more than 27,000 students, teachers, and parents, and over 1,000 classes were carefully observed by trained researchers. The result is this book. Written by one of the nation's most astute and experienced educators, Goodlad's message of optimism and his agenda for improvement have only grown in importance since the book's original publication.

"The Goodlad study has attracted special interest, both for its unusually large amount of data and for the author's long activity as a teacher and researcher."--The New York Times

"One would be hard pressed to imagine a better study within the realm of reasonable human effort."--Washington Post

"He provides compelling evidence that what we have will not do, and that only a thorough revolution can bring the reality of the school closer to its ideal."--Newsweek

John I. Goodlad is president of the Institute for Educational Inquiry and a founder of the Center for Educational Renewal at the University of Washington. The author of more than 30 books on education, Goodlad has received numerous national awards in recognition of his work in the field.