Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/2440/66771
Type: Journal article
Title: Death by a thousand cuts': the failings of the Tasmanian essential learnings curriculum (2000-2006): the political dynamics
Author: Rodwell, G.
Citation: Education Research and Perspectives, 2009; 36(2):110-134
Publisher: University of Western Australia, Dept of Education
Issue Date: 2009
ISSN: 0311-2543
Statement of
Responsibility: 
G. W. Rodwell
Abstract: In 2000, Paula Wriedt, the Tasmanian Minister for Education, gave instructions for her department to begin the development of a K to 10 statewide curriculum, soon to become known as the Essential Learnings Framework, or simply, ELs. The curriculum was an integrated one, doing away with traditional subjects, or disciplines, such as mathematics, science, English and history, and replacing these with an integrated, enquiry-based curriculum underpinned by constructivist pedagogy. This was the first attempt in Tasmania at a statewide K to 10 curriculum, and the first attempt at major system-wide curriculum change for nearly twenty years. Essentially, ELs was a political, as much as an educational initiative. Following six years of intensely public outrage and hostile public discourse, its demise closely followed the failed political fortunes of its political architect – Paula Wriedt. The ELs saga had far reaching implications, going beyond simply the curriculum content and pedagogy for Tasmanian schools.
Rights: Copyright © 2011 RMIT Publishing
Published version: http://search.informit.com.au/browsePublication;py=2009;vol=36;res=APAFT;issn=0311-2543;iss=2
Appears in Collections:Aurora harvest
Education publications

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