Social Foundations of Education Reader

The Social Foundations Reader is intended for undergraduate and graduate students in introductory foundations of education classes. Unlike other readers, which often provide a generic and conservative perspective, this book offers a broad yet critical view of issues in education. It encourages students to consider the roles of critical theory and social justice in creating school environments that address equity and diversity. This book presents a different lens on twenty-first-century schools, considering the perspectives of parents, teachers, students and communities. The reader is exposed to a wide range of scholarship, from the traditional work of John Dewey to the controversial ideas of Henry Giroux. Contested topics in teaching, learning and leading in contemporary public schools are examined within a context where addressing fundamental questions guiding meaningful school reform is essential for educators. Each of the five sections includes an introduction and reflection questions to guide reading and challenge students to critically engage with the ideas presented.