Managerial Cultures in UK Further and Vocational Education: Transforming Techno-Rationalism into Collaboration

Abstract

This book offers unique insights into the impact of the rise of a managerialist culture in Further Adult and Vocational Education (FAVE) in England. It will also raise awareness of the consequences of the imposition of top-down models of educational change and improvement upon the practices of educational leaders, middle and senior managers and policy professionals across the FAVE sector. The overall aim of this book is to understand the language, policies, values and approaches currently espoused in post-16 learning. Often these are driven by, or measured by, technical-rational approaches which can have a negative impact on individuals working in the sector, lead to a narrowing of the curriculum and range of assessment opportunities, and do not support student progression. The authors propose tentative, researched, and evidence-based suggestions for new ways of working which might, ultimately, have a significant benefit to post-16 learning. The book will appeal to those engaged in researching education – either as academics, policy makers, trainees, or practitioners who are interested in ways of reflecting on, researching into, and improving practice.