Ecology of the School
School's function in the US
Universal
Formal
Prescriptive
Society's expectations are expressed in goals
Academic
Vocational
Social, civic, cultural
Personal
School funding comes from values, of equality of opportunity, concepts of knowledge and skills required for the future, and affordability of programs and curricula
Science and technology do not only affect the way children learn but also how teachers teach
Families choice of schools for three reasons
Is consistent with a democratic form of government that promotes freedom
fosters competition among schools to better educate students
individual students will be more empowered to succeed in some schools than in others
Many believe private schools to be more successful than public schools
Charter schools: schools formed by a group of parents, teachers, or other community members with a shared educational philosophy
No Child Left Behind (NCLB) 2001
Melting pot: a concept gaining popularity in response to major increases in immigration
The intersection of religion and school is a big socialization aspect in children who attend public school
Disability: the reduction of function or the absence of a particular body part or organ
Impairment: physical damage or deterioration
Handicap: something that hampers a person- a disadvantage or hinderance
Inclusion: educational philosophy of being part of the world- that children are entitled to participate fully in their school and community
Individualized education program (IEP): communication between school and family from a group (teachers, parents, and other involved personnel) responsible for the education of a child with special needs
IEP's must include 5 major points
Technology enhances learning
Emergency plans need to address a range of events and hazards
Learning style: pattern of behavior and performance by which an individual approaches educational experiences
Students find connections in their schools from 3 areas
School size
Discipline policies
Student friendship