React to the Often-Heard Statement, "In Education, the Pendulum Constantly

question 6

Essay

React to the often-heard statement, "In education, the pendulum constantly swings back and forth from a holistic approach to a skills-based approach to early literacy instruction." What do you think is the impetus for such change when it occurs? Would you characterize the cyclical changes as "swings" or "spirals" toward progressively better literacy instruction? Give reasons for your answer.

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Definitions:

McDonaldization

Describes the process by which the principles of the fast-food industry, such as efficiency, calculability, predictability, and control, have come to dominate other sectors of society.

Fast-Food Restaurants

Eateries that serve food quickly and efficiently, often part of a chain, and typically offer a limited menu of items that are prepared in advance and kept warm until sold.

Rationality

The quality of being based on or in accordance with reason or logic.

Colonialism

The practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically.