210067 SE BAK10: Toward more equitable education systems: Comparative policy approaches (2024W)

Most societies around the world have established some form of compulsory public education, generally with the aim of preparing individuals for productive economic and civic participation in society. Within democratic countries in particular, public education is seen as a meritocratic equalizer, wherein students’ educational outcomes and social mobility should be based on their efforts rather than on their demographic profile. Despite these intentions and ideals, however, school systems tend to mirror and reproduce rather than counter existing structural inequities. In this class, students will explore variances in how public education systems have evolved in different countries over time, with a focus on historical inflection points and social catalysts leading to equity-focused policy change. Through engagement with pertinent educational theories, global and national policy reports, case studies, and other relevant documentation, students will gain insight into the efficacy of different national policy approaches for addressing common systemic barriers to educational equality.