Description
Book SynopsisThe Wrong Emphasis is a reminder and a warning for both parents and public school educators. In the world of high-octane curriculum, assessment, and accountability, educators too often neglect the realities associated with successful students and successful adults. The book examines the current status of public education in America, the associated political landscape, and the latest philosophies aimed at improving test scores. Further, it offers straightforward advice for parents and educators as they struggle to appropriately raise and teach today's children.
Trade ReviewDr. John Tufte adds to the increasingly important discussion on how an over-reliance of assessment and “accountability” by policy makers greatly lessens the value of the educational experience. When states like Texas explicitly work to write out critical thinking from the state standards, it is the pocketbooks of big testing companies who will see significant educational gains. An important read for anyone who values an educational system that creates independent and creative thinkers focused on innovation and compassion. -- David M. Tack, assistant professor; Coordinator of Secondary/K-12 Education, School of Teaching and Learning, Minnesota State University Moorhead
Dr. John Tufte successfully identifies some tragic flaws within the current public school ideologies in this country. His views on successful habits should be heard, for emphasizing assessment and accountability has proven unsuccessful. -- Todd Brist, principal, Watertown, South Dakota
Table of ContentsPreface Introduction Part One: Where We're At Chapter One: The Ugly Truth Chapter Two: Cultural Responsibility Chapter Three: Political Rhetoric Part Two: Blaming the Scale Chapter Four: Andrew, 1990s Chapter Five: Teachers or Secretaries? Chapter Six: The Unwritten Curriculum Part Three: Great Habits of the Unwritten Curriculum Chapter Seven: Age Appropriate Thinking Skills Chapter Eight: Age Appropriate People and Communication Skills Chapter Nine: Timeliness and Attendance Chapter Ten: Work Ethic and Dedication Chapter Eleven: Respect, Decency, and Humility Chapter Twelve: Responsibility and Teamwork Chapter Thirteen: Perspective Conclusion: Chapter Fourteen: Autonomy
