Standards: Who, What, Where, and Why

Jolene Nechiporenko

ET, CA

McClure, p. (2005). Where standards com from. Theory into practice, 4(1),4-10.
     doi:  10.1207/s15430421tip4401_2



Have you ever wondered where educational standards come from?  If so, start by reading this article in which the author does a nice job of simplifying and explaining the history and current development of standards. 

She explains that common standards are "rooted in the struggle for equal education."  Keep in mind that several different factors can contribute to inequality: socioeconomic conditions, minorities, etc.

In the early 1990s an achievement gas was recognized and addressed by a congressionally mandated study that suggested "There was a clear difference in standards, expectations, and curriculum" between states and schools.

in 1993 federal grants were given to state departments to develop curriculum and/or content standards.

In 1995 brought about the reform of professional development and teaching.  "The inequalities in the delivery of funding of educational and the achievement gasp between school and among groups of students could not be seriously addressed without setting uniform guidelines and regulations for the teaching profession.

McClure also mentions the implementation of Title 1 programs.