Conceptual Issues in Politics of Education

Abstract

Politics of education is a vast field of study. Although, a lot of theorizing on the subject matter exists, there is need for proper documentation of the political context of education in Nigeria so as to throw more light on the relevance of the concept in this era of globalization. In other words, it is sometime necessary to undertake the explanation of the concepts used in the study of politics of education so as to bridge the gap between theory and practice.

The concept politics of education thus refers to the social and political contexts of education.  Its main objectives is to identify and examine the various social and political factors that influence issues and problems which affect education production process and also to identify the possible strategies for harnessing or otherwise such controlling factors that influences issues and problems for the benefit of educational administration and planning in the society. In philosophy of education, the content of education is expressed in curriculum, syllabuses and textbooks which have tended to reflect the dominant ideologies and policy outcome of government in power.

Unchendu (2004) noted that politics of education involves a complex interrelationship among interest groups, politicians, educationist, bureaucrat and knowledge brokers.  He added that across the whole gamut of educational structure, these actors want educational institutions (Schools) to serve particular goals and needs as they define them.