Outcomes based education? Rethinking the provision of compulsory education in Western Australia

Authors

Richard G. Berlach, University of Notre Dame AustraliaFollow
Keith McNaught, University of Notre Dame AustraliaFollow

Publication Details

Berlach, R. G., & McNaught, K. (2007). Outcomes based education? Rethinking the provision of compulsory education in Western Australia. Issues In Educational Research, 17 (1), 1-14.

Abstract

Outcomes based education (OBE), which emphasises a radical reinterpretation of the enterprise of education, is a phenomenon enveloping the Australian compulsory education sector. This paper examines the theoretical tenets of OBE as articulated by its chief exponent, William Spady. It then explores the effects that OBE implementation is having on the Western Australian educational fraternity, touching upon current tensions and emerging consequences. Implementation exigencies in one area of the WA curriculum (Mathematics) are then considered; and finally, possible future ‘outcomes’ are suggested should the identified concerns fail to receive due attention.

Keywords

Peer-reviewed, Education Policy, Western Australia