Web Education
Saturday, January 01, 2000
In my 24 years as a school administrator, I have heard and read many long debates about the merits of various teaching philosophies. The fashion gurus of the school industry are long on theories and shy about outcomes. I do not want to join in the latest debate — on the merits of centrally prescribed homework.
There is a much better and quicker way to settle these things. Keep the externally set, externally marked, state-wide literacy and numeracy tests, with results going direct to parents. Reveal where kids need extra help. Reveal what methods are actually working.
Results speak louder than waffle. Keep the bastards honest.
Philip O'Carroll