In ancient Greece, why was education by the Sophists well received? How did critics view the ...

1)  ANSWER: Social changes in Greece opened up opportunities for the commercial classes. Because
formal schooling was limited for these people, the Sophists provided training in intellectual and rhetorical skills. The Sophists trained students to become successful advocates and legislators. According to critics, the Sophists placed too much emphasis on appearance and technique in communication at the expense of truth, honesty, and substance.

2)  ANSWER: Students carefully listened to sacred readings by the rabbi and engaged in reading, memorization, and recitation. The goal was to internalize the meaning and message of the lesson. Rituals were taught that commemorated important events in the history of the Hebrew people.

3)  ANSWER: Confucius' academy had the aim of educating officials for the imperial
government. There were clear standards for admission and for a period of training before students became government officials. Students learned forms of polite and ethical behavior. A well-defined system of classroom management was established, as were proper relationships between student and teacher. Tradition and the concept of hierarchical relationships were emphasized.

4)  ANSWER: The reasons for limitations should focus on the cultural view of women and citizens of lower socioeconomic status. Over time, the cultural view of these groups changed, thus creating subsequent changes in educational opportunities. The various types of schools in the chapter could be described in terms of the purpose of schooling, who could attend, and what the curriculum included.

5)  ANSWER: Answers could center on the perceived educational needs of the citizens during each of the time periods discussed in the chapter. There was a gradual shift from education for the elite to education for the masses. Similarly, the content in the schools changed to address varied needs. The development of vocational education is an example of this change.

6)  ANSWER: The answer can include any of the following additional points: peer review, career ladders, performance pay, benefits, charter schools, standard setting, and school-based management.

7)  ANSWER: Outside experts, government officials, business leaders and civic groups tend to make the decisions about selection of books, grant proposals, and resolve school-community issues. Teachers too often have no control of the decisions that affect their performance in the classroom.

8)  ANSWER: There is significant variation from state to state on the educational requirements and the preparation of certification. Many teachers cannot transfer their own certification outside of their original certification.

9)  ANSWER: Answers could comment on (a) new state requirements mandating that teachers renew
their professional skills to retain their teaching certificates; (b) the increasing knowledge base in areas such as educational technology; and (c) increased commitment to instructional improvement.

10)  ANSWER: The primary reasons are access to professional publications in the selected area, regional and national conferences, contact with other professionals, participation in the flow of new ideas about curriculum and instruction, and exposure to current research.

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