The idea for this assignment is that:
1. You examine an educational issue that interests you and is connected to the theme
‘education and society’.
2. You identify a suitable piece of writing that addresses this issue (could be a book, an
academic journal article or a public ‘think piece’, there may also be other possibilities, you
can check with us if you are unsure).
3. You then engage with your chosen piece of writing in a critical and thoughtful manner – as
we imagine we have taught you to do.
The assignment
Throughout this course we explore a range of issues that highlight the link between
education and society. For this assignment you need to select one piece of educational
writing and write a reflective account of what the piece tells you about the relationship
between education and society.
Your chosen piece of writing should be linked to the ideas covered in class and be of
interest to you.
Planning
This assignment requires some description and lots of critical reflection. It is important
to get the balance right so that you are able to engage thoughtfully with the ideas rather
than simply summarise what your chosen piece of writing is about.Description: We suggest no more than 200 words at the beginning that succinctly
summarise the key ideas in the reading and a brief statement of why the writing appeals
to you.Critical reflection: The main part of your discussion should provide a critical
engagement with the ideas in your chosen piece of writing. Your engagement should
draw from the ideas and content covered in class and offer a robust discussion of what
the piece is saying about the relationship between education and society.
This is what we are looking for:
1. Insightful engagement with a piece of educational writing that leads to a robust discussion
of what the piece tells us about the relationship between education and society.
2. Strong links between the text and the ideas addressed in the course.
3. A reflective stance throughout your discussion that show willingness to express a
personal viewpoint, come to a conclusion, and/or acknowledge that there are a range of
perspectives in relation to the educational issue you discuss.
4. Text selection that is appropriate for the task.
5. Writing that is clear and f
