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Educational historian Diane Ravitch believes that:

a. Comprehensive high schools are effective
b. Specialized schools are detrimental
c. Standardized testing is irrelevant
d. Educational focus is crucial

1 Answer

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Final answer:

Diane Ravitch critiques the "one size fits all" approach in education, particularly the focus on standardized testing, known as "teaching to the test." Despite increased funding, standardized test scores have not improved, leading to calls for a variety of educational reforms.

Step-by-step explanation:

Educational historian Diane Ravitch's views on education are far more negative than positive towards the idea of a "one size fits all" teaching method. Ravitch has been a vocal critic of teaching practices that focus narrowly on standardized testing, sometimes referred to as "teaching to the test," at the expense of a more well-rounded educational approach that includes critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The broader issue at play is two-fold: how to manage and organize schools effectively, and what incentives can drive educational success. In recent decades, despite an increase in spending per student, standardized test scores have stagnated, leading many to question the efficacy of current education reforms and suggesting the need for alternatives.

Some suggested reforms that have been proposed to address these challenges include: testing students regularly, rewarding teachers or schools for good performance on tests, requiring additional teacher training, giving parents and students more choice in selecting public schools, allowing the creation of new schools, and implementing student "vouchers" for use at public or private institutions. It's important to note that while Diane Ravitch has strongly critiqued certain educational methods and policies, the options listed here are general reform proposals floated by a variety of education experts.

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