Since 1989, international aid agencies have shown a marked interest in and preference for learner-centered pedagogy. This change follows a shift in agency ideology from modernization theory to neoliberalism, which sees democratic social relations as a prerequisite to free-market capitalism. Thus, the pedagogy represents a process of Westernization…

In light of recent evidence from Africa, Central America, and Asia, examines why rural parents in developing nations do or do not send children to primary school when compulsory education cannot be enforced. Considers economic aims, literary values, testing, and negative school attitudes in small areas of five countries. (SB)

Interviews with head teachers gathered information to study the relationship between academic achievement and variables such as availability of classrooms, furniture, and books in Botswana primary schools. In contrast to some studies carried out in the West, research supported the view that school facilities are integral to academic achievement.…