Skeptical Thinking on Education from Australia

From Podblack, two articles from the Australasian Journal of Special Education that might  be useful:

"Why Can't a Teacher Be More Like a Scientist? Science, Pseudoscience and the Art of Teaching" by Mark Carter and Kevin Wheldall,  in the Australasian Journal of Special Education, Volume 32, Issue 1 April 2008 , pages 5 - 21

Abstract
In this article, the authors argue the case for scientific evidenced-based practice in education. They consider what differentiates science from pseudoscience and what sources of information teachers typically regard as reliable. The What Works Clearinghouse is discussed with reference to certain limitations of its current operation. Given the relative paucity of 'gold standard' research in education, an alternative model for assessing the efficacy of educational programs is proposed as a temporary solution.

and

"Miracles Take a Little Longer: Science, Commercialisation, Cures and the Dore Program" by  Jennifer Stephenson and Kevin Wheldall, in the Australasian Journal of Special Education, Volume 32, Issue 1 April 2008 , pages 67 - 82

Abstract
In this article, the evidence regarding a proposed 'cure' for dyslexia and other, arguably related, conditions is examined critically. The origins and history of the Dore program and its progenitors, its introduction to Australia and its advertising claims are reviewed, with a focus on the claims made with regard to dyslexia, and particularly with regard to reading. The article compares the claims made about the program and the existing published research, considers whether the Dore program makes conceptual sense in the light of current scientific research and theory, evaluates the existing specific evidence adduced by its advocates as proof for the efficacy of the program, and compares the claims made by the program promoters with the scientific evidence available. It is concluded that none of the necessary desiderata to substantiate claims for a cure are met by the available scientific evidence for the efficacy of the Dore program.

Podblack has actually read the two articles -- I have to wait for next week for access through my university library.

Comments

[podblack]

Thanks! Let me know if you want any alerts for anything else I find or some help tracking things down.

[podblack]

New article, might be of interest: http://podblack.wordpress.com/2008/06/11/questioning-skeptics-on-primary-and-secondary-teaching/