Second Thoughts on Equality in Education

Abstract

This chapter discusses second thoughts on equality in education. In 1960s, policymakers began to be obsessed by problems of equality in education. The liberal quest for equality of opportunity entered upon a euphoric period. The seemingly unlimited resources put at the disposal of those in educational research and practice who wanted to do something served as a stimulant. Surveys were conducted and experimental programs in compensatory and remedial education were launched. There was a strong belief in what education, given the needed resources, could do in improving society. But at the very peak of its dazzling success, in the euphoric moment of being conceived of as the prime instrument of social progress and prosperity, doubts began to be raised and serious criticisms leveled. The school as an institution came under heavy attack from both left and right. Second thoughts and criticism also emerged with regard to something that had so far been regarded as an unassailable credo, that is, the equality of educational opportunity.