Question – Why does the attainment gap persist, and what can we do about it? (Scottish Context – Primary school mainly).
Draw upon both recommended theoretical and research resources and additional reading to provide a synthesis of the CURRENT policy landscapes and debates in Scotland. BUILD AN ARGUMENT FOR HOW EDUCATION PRACTICE AND POLICY IN RELATION TO THE ATTAINMENT GAP COULD BETTER CONTRIBUTE TO CREATING SUSTAINABLE, EQUITABLE AND PRODUCTIVE FUTURES FOR ALL YOUNG PEOPLE IN SCOTLAND AND BEYOND.
Introduction and conclusion is not needed. Please write under these headings:
– Current Public Debates:
Outline current public debates within the media; what has been discussed? Covid19 impact (school closures, home learning, widened the gap?) choose another 1 or 2 current debates on the attainment gap in the media (suggestion – how all the pressure and responsibility is on teachers, where is the collective effort? Maybe the government need to address deeper issues in inequality that widen the gap, social reform?) – BBC News, articles, documentaries etc.
– Governmental Policy:
Discuss the current policy responses relating to the attainment gap in Scotland and ONE other country (comparison); heavily link with Curriculum for Excellence, Scottish government and educational documents – GIRFEC, SHANARRI? What does this show? Teaching practices and methods?
– Academic Literature:
Evaluate how academic literature addresses this topic; views? descriptions of better practice/responses from teachers and schools. Explore how this literature help us think about FUTURE educational options.
*Throughout the sections please remember to refer back to the question of why the attainment gap persists and what we can do about it and how we can help to create sustainable, equitable and productive futures. Link this not only with teacher practices and responsibility but the government too. CRITICALITY IS KEY.
