The Impact of England's National Curriculum and Assessment System on Classroom Practice: Potential Lessons for American Reformers

Abstract

Today many American educational reformers and policymakers are beginning to embrace a new reform strategy for improving our schools, a strategy that emphasizes results rather than inputs or the redistribution of power. Key components of this strategy include the creation of "world-class" standards, curriculum frameworks, and "voluntary" national tests. Reforms similar to these are already in place in England. The 1988 British Education Reform Act provided for the creation of a national curriculum and national assessment system. This article describes the British experience with these reforms and identifies potential lessons for American reformers.