Polish Education Recovery examines Poland's ambitious journey to overhaul its educational system after the fall of communism in 1989. Driven by the desire to align with Western norms and prepare students for a globalized world, Poland undertook significant reforms in curriculum, teacher training, and resource allocation. The book particularly emphasizes how curriculum reform shifted from rote memorization to critical thinking, aligning with European Union standards. The study uses international assessment data like PISA and TIMSS to objectively evaluate the impact of these changes.
The book's strength lies in its longitudinal analysis, providing a comprehensive look at the long-term effects of educational policies over nearly three decades. It begins with the historical context and the initial state of the Polish education system, subsequently analyzing specific reforms and culminating in an assessment of their lasting impact.
This book offers valuable insights for academics, policymakers, and educators interested in post-communist transformations and educational system improvements. By examining Poland's experience, readers can gain practical knowledge about curriculum reform, effective teacher training, and equitable resource allocation strategies. The book adopts an academic yet accessible style, making it suitable for a wide audience.