Changes in educational policy and systems in Britain in the 1980s and 1990s

Abstract

By the end of this chapter you should:

• understand the reasons for changes to examinations and assessment in the 1980s and 1990s and the competing views expressed about the changes;

• have a critical understanding of the new vocationalism;

• have reflected on student answers to an exam question;

• appreciate conflicting debates surrounding the 1988 Education Act;

• recognise the implications of the Dearing Report;

• be sensitive to changes in education and training for 16–19-year-olds and higher education. You should understand the reasons for the changes and the conflicting views expressed about the changes;

• be familiar with the privatisation process taking place in schools;

• have practised structured exam questions yourself.