This book critiques dominant discourses and debates pertaining to cultural identity, set against the current backdrop of growing social stratification and unequal access to quality education. It addresses current discourses concerning globalisation, ideologies and the state, as well as approaches to constructing national, ethnic and religious…

Is it possible to compare the results in assessments of mathematics across countries with different curricula, traditions and age of starting school? As part of the iPIPS project, a Russian version of the iPIPS baseline assessment was developed and trial data were available from about 300 Russian children at the start and end of their first year…

Using data from the international Teacher Education and Development Study: Learning to Teach Mathematics (TEDS-M), the measurement equivalence of teachers' beliefs across countries is investigated for the case of "mathematics-as-a fixed-ability". Measurement equivalence is a crucial topic in all international large-scale assessments and…

This paper employed a psychological-historical framework for an analytical examination of the Russian identity during the Soviet period through the fall of the Soviet Union and the transitional period that led to an establishment of the Russian Federation. A theoretical model is provided for the analysis of Russian identity that can be generalized…

The change processes involving schools that are currently experiencing turbulent social reconstruction in eastern Europe are examined in this paper, which calls for the development of a new paradigm for social change. The first section describes recent educational reform activities and their flaws in three eastern European countries--Russia,…

Statistics on special education in Russia are given; the basic principles of Vygotsky, Russia's foremost special education theorist, are outlined; and a six-step process which teachers follow in the classroom is listed. (SBH)

Distinguishes between alternative schools (where a particular educational program is adhered to as a matter of faith) and innovative schools (where there is a constant search for better approaches). Maintains that the innovative approach has become more accepted in Russian schools, allowing teachers greater freedom and increasing their…

Discusses tensions and dilemmas that arise in the implementation of Vygotskian psychology. Analyzes the development of special educational needs and practice in the former Soviet Union and compares this with similar changes in England and Wales. Uses interviews in Russian schools and Moscow State University to illustrate the analysis. (CFR)

First of an occasional series of "on-the-ground" reports by correspondents in various geographical regions. The seminar about the challenges of modern Russian education concerns the peculiarities of management of different educational systems (federal, regional, municipal, school) and of change management. (MLF)

According to Education Minister Edward Dneprov, the Russian Republic's education policy has two major pillars--democratization and "humanitization" (stressing the humanities and a truly child-centered curriculum). A market economy is not incompatible with humanistic aims, but it is not the driving force behind them. The flagging economy…

Discusses both the background and the current state of treatment of children with disabilities in Russia. Describes the theoretical basis of the modern Russian approach to disability, the current population's needs, and the existing system for referral and rehabilitation. Identifies merging trends and new perspectives on the Russian treatment of…

Provides an interview with Russian Academy of Education Academician Vladimir Shadrikov, the first deputy minister. Focuses on topics such as the differentiation of education, the theory of developmental instruction, and the formulation of a state educational standard for the basic schools. (CMK)

Explores educational reform at the turn of the century, documenting the influence of European educational thought and practice on the work of John Dewey and the influence of Dewey's ideas on education in Turkey, Russia, and the Netherlands. A context-specific approach to discussions of Progressivism is required. (SLD)

Discusses humanization in contemporary Russian education where it is seen as a key factor influencing social change. Analyzes past educational development and suggests that present trends owe more than may be expected to the past. Argues that the present discussion in Russia focuses too much on individualism and ignores processes of mediation.…

Asserts that education means the transmission and reception of knowledge, abilities, skills, and consciousness so that individuals can become effective members of society. Discusses the failures of the educational system of the former Soviet Union. Describes a preferred type of schooling for Russian society in the 21st century. (CFR)