Books
50 think pieces on education, policy, practice, innovation & inclusion
A collection of 50 think pieces showcasing perspectives on curriculum theory and practice, presented by the British Educational Research Association (BERA), in conjunction with the British Curriculum Forum (BCF).
Written by eminent curriculum makers and innovators working across the UK and beyond, the contributions share insights into the study and practical implementation of curriculum in schools, colleges, universities, and other formal and informal educational settings.
Curriculum in a Changing World explores historical and contemporary approaches to curriculum design, highlighting the evolution from knowledge-focused curricula to competency-based frameworks. Providing valuable insights for all educators, policymakers and researchers, the think pieces delve into government policy; issues of equality, diversity and inclusion; school-based innovations; and teacher education. Future directions for curriculum are considered in the context of seismic shifts in society, from global ecological concerns to a digital revolution. The book celebrates the rich landscape of curriculum innovation and research in the four UK nations and beyond, and builds on an illustrious heritage, including the seminal tradition of research and development founded by Lawrence Stenhouse.
Published to mark BERA’s 50th anniversary, this unique volume is edited by the steering group of the BCF, a vibrant and active network united by a deeply held interest in the study of theoretical, innovative and practical elements of curriculum.
‘This book offers a comprehensive exploration of educational policies and curriculum development in the UK over the past 50 years. By including contributions from experts across primary, secondary and higher education, as well as from different regions of the UK, the book provides a rich and diverse perspective on how education has evolved. The inclusion of insights from policymakers, academics and curriculum advisors further adds depth to the analysis.
If you are interested in education policy or curriculum design, this book could be a valuable resource. It offers both a historical overview and a thoughtful critique of various changes in educational approaches. The chapters are likely to spark further conversations about how education curriculums need to meet the demands of our ever-changing world. This edited collection might even inspire new themes and areas of focus for research, as well as advance new methods and theoretical perspectives for designing evidence-based and effective curriculum.’
Nadia Siddiqui, Professor in the School of Education, Durham University
‘Either as an aide-memoire, seminar starters or first steps in school curriculum projects, Curriculum in a Changing World is to be commended for its scope, quality and alignment with modern reading habits. The section on school-based curriculum innovation stands out – expounding Stenhouse in action and showing the understanding teachers need to develop the curriculum, using knowledge of climate change, threshold concepts and educational theory. The collaborative process described by Howard would accommodate NQTs as ‘practical theorisers’ and provide the space and time for sensemaking or coaching which leads to professional satisfaction. This book outlines thoughtful starters on all these issues.’
Beth Dickson, Member of the Board of Initial Teacher Education for the Education Workforce Council in Wales
Professor of Education/Research Degrees Leader at University of East London
Gerry Czerniawski runs the Professional Doctorate in Education at UEL and teaches on Initial Teacher Education (ITE) courses. In addition to his role as a researcher, author and teacher educator he is the Lead Editor of the BERA Blog and a...
Senior Lecturer Education Studies (with Modern Languages) at Stranmillis University College
Sharon Jones is senior lecturer in education studies at Stranmillis University College, Queen’s University Belfast.
Professor of Classics Education and Public Policy at Durham University
Arlene Holmes-Henderson is Professor of Classics Education and Public Policy at Durham University where she holds a British Academy Innovation Fellowship (2022-2024). After studying Classics at Oxford, Harvard and Cambridge, Arlene qualified as a...
Principal Lecturer, Curriculum Development at Sheffield Hallam University
Richard leads the knowledge in education research group in the Sheffield Institute of Education at Sheffield Hallam University. He is a senior fellow of the Higher Education Academy (HEA). Richard holds a Teacher Fellowship from the university...
Primary Lecturer in PSHE and RSE,Head of SENDI and Diversity at University of Worcester
Victoria is a senior lecturer at the University of Worcester specialising in PSHE and RSE. She is also the SENDI and diversity lead for Initial Teacher Education (ITE) teaching on both undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Victoria has 15 years...
Assistant Professor at The Education University of Hong Kong
Weipeng Yang, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor in Early Childhood Education at The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong. He specialises in early childhood curriculum and pedagogy with interests in STEAM education, positive education, and...
The British Curriculum Forum aims to bring together all those with an interest in collaborative curriculum, research and development. Through events, awards and grants, the BCF supports...
