The Rules of Engagement: Examining the Limits of Standards and Accountability Policy

Abstract

Standards and accountability policies are central elements of school reform agendas aimed at equalizing students' access to quality education and closing the achievement gap. Yet, such policies have failed to yield the expected, large scale results. One explanation may be found in the embedded zones of wishful thinking. Two particular zones of wishful thinking are the policies' efficacy to foster deep learning and the standards' ability to create cohesive P–12 systems of educational excellence.

Key words:

• accountability policies
• achievement
• learning
• school reform
• standards.