Learning and Freedom: Policy, Pedagogy and Paradigms in Indian Education and Schooling »

Learning and Freedom is a powerful contribution to the search for an alternative paradigm in schooling and education in India. It focuses on how people learn best and on the relationship between learning and the potential of education to achieve social justice. Using the most recent data on educational access, achievement, quality and equity, author John Robert Shotton critically assesses the gap between educational policy and educational provisions and achievement. Using this analysis he outlines the philosophical and practical underpinnings of the new paradigm, which he conceives of as a learner-centered pedagogy guided by a more community-based and sociable approach. By examining a series of highly successful education projects across India and in other developing countries, the author also develops working models for the new educational approach suggested. The key factors that will influence any educational policy in the 21st century are also discussed. Going beyond a mere critique of educational development in India, Learning and Freedom concludes on an optimistic note, suggesting fresh ideas about learning and freedom in schooling. Learning and Freedom will be of interest to academics and practitioners in education, pedagogy, teacher training, and human resources development.

Booknews

Shotton (education, U. of Cambridge) critically assesses Indian education policy that since 1951 has resulted in a real-money decline in support for elementary education and an increase in support for universities. He outlines an approach that would supplant the traditional elitist bias with a learner-centered pedagogy guided by community-based and sociable values. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.