This course will explore the philosophical assumptions behind different theories and methods of education, paying close attention to how views of education have developed and changed over the last few centuries. In addition to exploring fundamental questions surrounding the nature and purpose of education, the course will also examine the potential value of philosophy for K-12 education. The last few weeks of the course are dedicated to understanding some of the current debates surrounding education, and takes up issues like who should decide the school curriculum, should values be taught in schools, what kind of testing works best for student learning, and similar contentious issues to do with school reform. OC, PMI