A learning foundation

Abstract

This article suggests that many of the problems afflicting modern educational systems may best be characterized as discontinuities of age, class, race, discipline and organisation. On the basis of this diagnosis, the essay suggests an alternative educational institution — the Learning Foundation — as a model for reorganising the delivery of educational services in order to provide learning opportunities for all ages and levels of experience at the point of the local neighbourhood but supported by the services of central resources units. The governing structure of the Learning Foundation would vest major power in the local learning groups. It would utilise a new teaching role through the development of “educational organisers”, who would apply community organising techniques to the provision of learning opportunities. The idea of this innovative educational institution is supported by a theory of institutional change which emphasises the role of alternative institutions in the reform of social systems. This suggested institution is offered both as a model for evaluating other institutions and as the first approximation of a plan for implementation.