This study is the result of many years of research but is topical because of the current teacher shortage. At its peak in 1961 there were 40,000 men and women who entered colleges of education in Britain compared to 50,000 who entered traditional universities. There have been interesting histories of individual colleges but this book takes a holistic approach which was supported by the historian Professor Asa Briggs. This controversial study is packed with fascinating facts that will intrigue and inform readers. As well as the relationship between colleges and schools social issues are analysed such as the role of working class teachers and the battles of women staff and students. New evidence is provided for the colleges' expansion and their sudden closure. The study draws on undiscovered official and local archival sources. An important feature is the testimony drawn from interviews from former college students, the oldest being 101 years. This immensely readable book appeals to general readers as well as specialist historians of education. It is of particular interest to teachers, especially those whose institutions were originally colleges of education. Political scientists and sociologists will find much of relevance, as will feminists who have enjoyed Debenham's last two published books.
Autorentext
Dr Clare Debenham was originally trained at a college of education and lectured at three others. She has a Doctorate in politics from the University of Manchester where she taught in the department of Politics. She is now an Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Manchester. She regularly writes for the Times Higher Education and has been selected to present her research at British and International conferences including one organized by the University of London. She is also a member of the History of Education Society and has published in their journal.
Inhalt
Chapter One Introduction Chapter Two The context of the colleges of educations Chapter Three The relationship of school based training to that provided by colleges Chapter Four The relationship of academic development to professional training Chapter Five Strong female principals and feisty women students Chapter Six Issues of social mobility Chapter Seven Control and Rebellion Chapter Eight Expansion and death of the colleges of education Chapter Nine Later Developments