Theory of Education by David A. Turner (English) Paperback Book

Publisher Description

To date, theory in Education Studies has been dominated by a particular view of what should count as 'scientific' theory. David Turner argues that this approach does not necessarily provide a firm foundation for policy planning and professional activity. Using examples from linear programming, game theory, decision theory and chaos theory, he demonstrates how certain insights from modern developments in, for example, the social sciences can be used to stimulate more rewarding debate amongst educational researchers.

Author Biography

David A. Turner is Professor of Education at the University of Glamorgan, UK. Before he entered academia, he was a physics teacher in secondary schools in England. He won the World Education Fellowship Prize in 2006 for his book, Theory of Education. He is currently Visiting Professor at Hiroshima University until July 2010.

Table of Contents

1. Theory in Education: Stuck in the Mud with the Wheels Spinning; 2. Clearing the Ground; 3. Large Scale Statistical Survey Methods; 4. Action Research; 5. Postmodernism; 6. Game Theory and Individual Choice in Schooling; 7. Linear Programming and Sociological Laws; 8. Linear Programming and Educational Policy; 9. Group Decision Making; 10. Chaos and Complexity; 11. Conclusions

Review

"At a time when academic books are becoming the small change of our RAE-bound world it is a great pleasure to come upon one that is deeply considered and has been a long time in that making" -- Brian Davies
"To fellow academics may I say this: Don't put it unread on your students' reading list. Tackle it for yourself, for this is seminal." Professor Michael Bassey * Blurb from reviewer *
"I think every chapter has an important idea in it, and the last sentence happily promises a sequel". Tyrell Burgess, Professor Emeritus in the Philosophy of Social Institutions, University of East London. * Blurb from reviewer *
"I thought the book was provocative and original ..." -- Patricia Broadfoot, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Professor of Education at the University of Bristol * Blurb from reviewer *
"... a surprisingly interesting read". John Fazey, Director Centre for Learning, Development and Training, University of Wales, Bangor * Blurb from reviewer *
"In this clear and engaging book, Douglas McDermid gives us the first comprehensive account of classical and contemporary pragmatist arguments against the correspondence theory of truth. Anyone interested in the pragmatist account of truth - indeed, in any account of truth - will find this book a tremendously useful resource." Cheryl Misak, University of Toronto * Blurb from reviewer *
'...there is a great deal in his book for educationists and policymakers to think about. To fellow academics may I say this: Don't put it unread on your students' reading lists. Tackle it yourself, for it is seminal.'   vol 38, no 1 -- Michael Bassey * Higher Education Review *

Review Quote

"To fellow academics may I say this: Don't put it unread on your students' reading list. Tackle it for yourself, for this is seminal."Professor Michael Bassey

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