First published 2013
Heather Young examines how modern educational policies have reshaped American schools and student participation in democracy. Young argues that current measurement practices fail to cultivate civic engagement among young adults. She traces the influence of business models on education, particularly through No Child Left Behind legislation and its emphasis on scientific testing methods. The author critiques transactional learning approaches that prioritize standardized metrics over community involvement. Young presents alternative strategies from education and social transformation experts who advocate for participatory learning models. Her analysis connects educational reform debates to broader questions about youth civic participation. The book offers practical adjustments educators can implement to help students become active contributors to their local communities. Young demonstrates how schools can move beyond test scores to foster genuine democratic engagement.
Genres: american, political-science, education, non-fiction, activism, academic
Vibes: thought-provoking
Tropes: social-commentary
Setting: America
Period: 21st-century
80 pages · Paperback · GRIN Verlag