Peer-Reviewed Journal Details
Mandatory Fields
McCormack, O,Lynch, R,Hennessy, J
2015
October
Educational Studies
Plastic people in pinstripe suits: an exploration of the views of Irish parents on the publication of school league tables
Published
()
Optional Fields
school league tables parental views accountability philosophy of education TEACHER-EDUCATION ACCOUNTABILITY MARKETS IRELAND INVOLVEMENT PERFORMANCE GOVERNANCE RESPONSES ENGLISH ISSUES
41
513
533
While the publication of school league tables is prohibited by law in Ireland, the publication of data categorising university placements achieved per school has become common practice. A central argument advanced in this endeavour includes the provision of information for parents. The views of parents on this issue have, until now, not been explored in Ireland. The current paper outlines the findings of a national survey of 1915 parents on the publication of school league tables. The findings of this research highlight a widespread rejection of the practice. Concerns surrounding the narrowing of educational experience, the intensification of performance pressures and the rise of elitism in schools were noted. Calls for greater teacher accountability were also noted and deemed to transcend the publication of school league tables.
10.1080/03055698.2015.1062080
Grant Details