Globalization and the social justice agenda for education: Moving from critique to possibilities

Abstract

This paper analyzes the complexities of addressing the impact of globalization on educational policy. The intent is to engage in a constructive debate about education and equity in a globalized context. Although despair is sometimes inevitable, and is, oftentimes, manifested in a continuing critique of the detrimental effects of globalization on issues of equity and social justice in education, it is not the end. It could serve as the beginning of something that is not just different and redemptive but also forward thinking. There are three parts to this paper: the first offers multiple perspectives for viewing globalization followed by an analysis of the impact on issues of equity and social justice. Lastly, an abridged version of a conceptual model adapted from Ghosh (2004) aims at renegotiating cultural space in an ever-shifting milieu is discussed as a viable possibility.