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Home Postgraduate Programmes Course Units MD490

MD490 School Improvement
(20 Credits)
Tutor: Mel West

Structure:
10 workshop sessions (2.5hours)
2 sessions providing small group tutorials

Aims

The module aims to develop students’ knowledge and understanding of practical approaches to school improvement and of current theories, issues and debates in the field.

Learning outcomes

On completion of the module students should be able to:

• demonstrate their understanding of the major approaches to school improvement;
• critically analyse the main conceptual and theoretical issues underpinning such approaches;
• understand the range and complexity of school improvement efforts;
• apply research findings to their own situation and to other educational contexts;
• argue convincingly for change where necessary.

Content

1. The historical development and current context of school improvement
2. The relationship between school effectiveness and school improvement,
3. Central models and theories of school improvement.
4. Initiating, implementing and embedding change.
5. Improving classroom practice.
6. Target setting and external pressures for raising pupil achievement.
7. Turning around ineffective schools.
8. Creating a learning culture.
9. Critical success factors in school improvement – lessons from case studies and consultancy.
10. Future perspectives – school improvement in the 21st century.

Method

The module will be taught using a variety of approaches including lectures, group activities, presentations by students, analysis of video case studies and small group tutorials.

Time Allocation and Credits

A single module is worth 20 credits under the UCET Credit Rating Scheme. 180 credits represents a full MEd.

Assessment

One essay of 4,000 words in the form of an essay or case study to be submitted within four weeks of the end of the semester in which the module is taken.

Core Publications

Fullan, M. (1991) The New Meaning of Educational Change, London: Cassell.
Hargreaves, A. and Fullan, M. (1998) What’s Worth Fighting for in Education? Open University Press.

Hopkins, C. Ainscow, M. and West, M, (1994) School Improvement in an Era of Change, London: Cassell.

MacGilchrist, B. Myers, K. and Reed, J. (1997) The Intelligent School, London: Chapman.

Stoll, L. and Fink, D. (1996) Changing Teachers, London: Cassell.

Restrictions and Availability

This module is open to all registered students.