Future Now 004 — The Education Myth with Jon Shelton
Apr 22, 2023
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Jon Shelton, Associate Professor and Chair of Democracy and Justice Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay and Vice President for Higher Education of the American Federation of Teachers-Wisconsin, challenges the 'education myth' by arguing that education alone cannot overcome economic and social inequalities in society. They discuss the evolution of public education, the redefinition of 'human capital,' and the lack of significant change in wages despite the increase in college degrees. They also explore the value of education versus having a home for economic mobility.
Education is not a panacea for economic and social inequalities; other policy levers are necessary.
The perception of education has shifted towards a utilitarian focus on skill-building, neglecting holistic education.
The education myth has led to accountability measures based on standardized testing, disempowering teachers and neglecting external factors.
Deep dives
The Education Myth: Challenging the Idea of Education as a Solution
In this podcast episode, Marina Gorbous interviews John Shelton, author of the book 'The Education Myth,' which challenges the belief that education is a solution to all economic and social inequities. Shelton argues that instead of solely focusing on education, we need to consider other policy levers and reforms to address these issues. The conversation delves into Shelton's background as an academic, teacher, and union organizer, and how his experiences shaped his perspective on education. The episode explores the historical evolution of the perception of education, the impact of the education myth on the education system, and the insidious effects of the myth on blaming individuals and neglecting other policy interventions. Despite the challenges posed by the education myth, the episode highlights signals of hope, such as a growing literature challenging the myth, grassroots movements challenging the narrative, and political shifts towards a reevaluation of the role of education in society.
The Shift from Education as Essential to Utilitarian Skill Building
The podcast episode discusses how the perception of education has shifted from being seen as essential to democracy and citizenship to a utilitarian focus on skill building. It examines how this shift was propelled by influential reports like 'A Nation At Risk' in 1983, which argued for education reform based on the belief that education is crucial for economic competitiveness. This narrative has led to deep professionalization of the teaching profession, increased standardized testing, and a focus on measurable outcomes rather than holistic education. The episode emphasizes how this shift has degraded the education system and neglected important aspects of learning, such as arts, humanities, and civic education.
The Insidious Impacts of the Education Myth
The podcast episode explores the insidious impacts of the education myth on the education system itself. It delves into the accountability measures imposed on teachers based on standardized test scores, leading to increased pressure on teachers and a narrow focus on test preparation. This has contributed to the disempowerment of teachers and has affected investments in non-measurable aspects of education. The episode also points out the blame placed on teachers for the economic outcomes of their students, neglecting the role of external factors like poverty and mental health. Furthermore, the education myth has shaped education policy, disregarding other policy interventions and perpetuating the notion that education is the sole solution to economic and social inequities.
Signals of Hope for Challenging the Education Myth
Despite the prevalence of the education myth, the podcast episode highlights several signals of hope for challenging this narrative. It discusses the growing literature and conversations around debunking the myth, exemplified by books like 'The Fantasy Economy' and 'The Tyranny of Merit,' and grassroots movements like the Chicago Teachers Union demanding broader investments in education. The episode explores the political landscape, acknowledging how both the Republican and Democratic parties have contributed to the education myth narrative, but also recognizing the potential for political shifts. It cites examples like the push for reform within the Democratic Party, the Bernie Sanders movement, and Biden's recognition of the need for good jobs in local communities. These signals of hope provide an optimistic outlook for challenging the education myth and reevaluating the role of education in society.
The Need for a Paradigm Shift in Education
The podcast episode underscores the need for a paradigm shift in education and the importance of reevaluating the education system. It prompts a critical examination of the education myth to move towards securing economic and social rights for all individuals. The episode emphasizes that education should not solely control the labor market and highlights the degradation of the education system caused by the utilitarian focus on job skills. It advocates for a broader education that includes the development of well-rounded citizens, fostering critical thinking, and addressing societal challenges beyond individual economic outcomes. The discussion concludes by recognizing the significance of accelerating the shift in the education paradigm to shape a future that prioritizes equity, democracy, and holistic education.
In today's episode, IFTF's Executive Director Marina Gorbis talks with Jon Shelton, Associate Professor and Chair of Democracy and Justice Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay and Vice President for Higher Education of the American Federation of Teachers-Wisconsin. They discuss Jon’s new book, “The Education Myth,” which challenges the idea that education is a solution to all economic and social inequalities in society. Instead, Jon argues that we need to focus on other policy levers and reforms in addition to education. We hope you'll enjoy this conversation.
Quote: “The ‘education myth’ is the idea that education and, more specifically, investment in human capital can magically overcome all of the other economic and social inequalities that exist in our society.”
Mentioned in this episode:
The Education Myth, Jon Shelton (https://bit.ly/3LrBJAP)
The Fantasy Economy, Neil Kraus (https://bit.ly/3Nixitk)
The Education of Blacks in the South 1860-1935, James D. Anderson (https://bit.ly/3ouAGaf)
Teacher Strike! Public Education and the Making of a New American Political Order, Jon Shelton (https://bit.ly/3V6cCHe)
Thinking Like an Economist, Elizabeth Popp Berman (https://bit.ly/3LbY3xg)
Knocking on Labor's Door, Lane Windham (https://bit.ly/3V0uwel)
Don't Blame Us, Lily Geismer (https://bit.ly/41BmQBM)
The Race between Education and Technology, Claudia Goldin & Lawrence F. Katz (https://bit.ly/3LpnVaa)
The Meritocracy Trap, Daniel Markovits (https://bit.ly/3L8pkQW)
The Tyranny of Merit, Michael Sandel (https://bit.ly/3N5JgGR)
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