Rudduck and Flutter combine data from a number of interview-based projects, all with pupil voice at the center, which they have been involved in since the early 1990s. They examine the student perspective on contemporary schooling, including issues of transition, teaching and learning, and the ways school affects self-esteem, which can be further linked to broader social issues youth face, such as inequity, disadvantage and social barriers. The authors argue that the transformative potential of consulting pupils is considerable, and should be treated as a vital component in the process of school reform. Rudduck is Director of Research at Homerton College, U. of Cambridge, UK; Flutter is a research fellow. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
This fascinating book focuses on those who are most affected by changes in education policy and systemsthe pupils. It draws on empirical evidence from a number of research projects and distils this into a compelling account of contemporary schooling from the pupils' perspective.
Jean Rudduck calls for a shift in the way we currently view young people at school and sets out a case for radically rethinking aspects of school organization, relationships and practice. Her research confirms that we need to see pupils differently, to re-assess their capabilities and reflect on what they are capable of being and doing.
