Publication Date: Sep 2010
RRP: $34.95
ISBN: 9780980651225
Format: Paperback
Size: 153mm x 234mm
Pages: 238
Category: Education

Closing the Gap in Education?

Improving Outcomes in Southern World Societies

Edited by Ilana Snyder and John Nieuwenhuysen

Open Access

‘Ilana Snyder and John Nieuwenhuysen have put together a fine collection of papers on inclusive education with a southern slant. The material on indigenous education and cultural difference is especially strong. We find ourselves wanting more from these talented contributors.’ Professor Simon Marginson, University of Melbourne


The education of marginalised peoples and communities is a topic of great contemporary importance. Closing the Gap in Education? increases our understanding of the nature and challenges of marginalisation in southern world societies. The book also canvasses possible directions for change that might improve the social participation of young people. It is both timely and distinctive.

Closing the Gap in Education? emanates from a conference organised by the Monash Institute for the Study of Global Movements, in partnership with Monash South Africa, held in 2009 at Monash’s Johannesburg campus. Leading scholars and public figures from Australia, South Africa and New Zealand participated.

The authors provide illuminating accounts of marginalisation which point to the inadequacy of many current educational policies. Several contributors question the usefulness of notions of closing gaps and bridging divides, suggesting alternate ways to frame the debates.

In explaining the key terms – marginalisation, gaps, divides, peripheries – the contributors consider capabilities, social practices, neo-liberalism, human capital theory, raciology, redistribution, the education debt, the politics of hope, history as a cultural resource and other concepts. They do so as academics and activists committed to social justice in education. The achievement of social transformation is particularly emphasised.

Closing the Gap in Education? makes a most important contribution to understanding education in marginalised communities. It is a thought-provoking work, relevant to all readers interested in education, policy, government, global media and indigenous studies.

Contributors:

  • Mick Dodson
  • Inala Cooper
  • Graeme Bloch
  • Robyn Jorgensen
  • Richard Bedford
  • Paul Callister
  • James Newell
  • Thobeka Mda
  • Jane Kenway
  • Lindsay Fitzclarence
  • Johannah Fahey
  • Terri Seddon
  • Jon Altman
  • Bill Fogarty
  • Russell Bishop
  • Adam Shoemaker
  • Ilana Snyder
  • Leon Tikly
  • Chris Sarra
  • Peter Sullivan
  • Rebecca Youdale
  • Yusef Waghid

Ilana Snyder

Ilana Snyder is a Professor in the Faculty of Education, Monash University. Her research has investigated the changes to literacy practices associated with the use of digital technologies. Books that explore these changes include: Hypertext (1996), Page to Screen (1997), Teachers and Technoliteracy, with Colin Lankshear...
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John Nieuwenhuysen

John Nieuwenhuysen is Foundation Director of the Monash Institute for the Study of Global Movements, Visiting Professor, King’s College, University of London, and a member of Council, RMIT University in Melbourne. He was previously Foundation Director of the Bureau of Immigration,...
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