Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives Upon successful completion of this subject, students should understand the social context of education policy and policy making; understand how social problems come to be seen as educational issues; have become familiar with different approaches to education policy.
Synopsis This subject will consider sociology of educational policy and practice. It examines processes of policy formation and implementation and the significance of the changing character of Australian society, state institutions and personnel, educational discourses and the politics of education. Particular attention will be given to different ways of understanding the policy process and their implications for practical work in education policy. This subject will be useful for students working in primary, secondary, tertiary and other professional education and training who wish to extend their understanding of the social, political and historical forces which shape contemporary education policy and practice. Starting time will be negotiated in the first session.
Assessment Seminar: 30% + Research paper (6000 words): 70%