David F. Labaree has spent the last twenty years researching, thinking and writing about some of the key and enduring issues in the history of education and education policy and politics. Here, he brings together twelve of his key writings in one place. Starting with a specially written introduction, 'Getting It Wrong', which gives an ironic overview of how the ideas in his work have evolved over time and throws light on the process of scholarly production, the chapters cover such topics as:

• the structure of the educational system
• conflicting purposes of education
• the core problems of practice in teaching and teacher education

• barriers to curriculum reform.

An ideal resource for anyone wanting to know more about the development of schools and schooling and David Labaree's contribution to these important fields.