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Description
This programme takes the form of a formal debate at the Royal Institution with the proposition 'That academic standards have been sacrificed on the altar of equality'. Witnesses supporting the prop...osition appear in this programme, those against in E200/24.
Metadata describing this Open University video programme
Module code and title: E200, Contemporary issues in education
Item code: E200; 23
First transmission date: 06-04-1981
Published: 1981
Rights Statement:
Restrictions on use:
Duration: 00:24:24
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Producer: Suzanne,1941- Campbell-Jones
Contributors: Anthony Flew; Ludovic Kennedy; John Marks
Publisher: BBC Open University
Keyword(s): Egalitarian; Equality; Literacy; Standards; Traditions
Footage description: Ludovic Kennedy introduces the debate from a lecture hall at the Royal Institution. The case for the proposition is put by Kenneth Minogue, Leader in Political Science at L.S.E. The case against is then argued by Professor A.H.Halsey, Director of Social and Administrative Studies at Oxford University. Minogue maintains that educational standards have fallen as a result of "ill-conceived projects of social engineering." Halsey's view is that standards are far higher than they used to be, and that the facts of research support his case. Minogue calls his first witness, John Marks, Senior Physics Lecturer at North London Polytechnic. In response to Minogue's questions Marks provides statistical evidence that educational standards are low. Halsey attacks Marks on the grounds that his figures are misleading and that he has misunderstood recent educational research. Minogue's second supporting witness is Sir Max Beloff, Historian at Oxford University. He gives his opinion of the historical reasons for low standards in modern British education. Halsey argues with Beloff about how educational standards have changed during Beloff's lifetime. Minogue's third witness is Antony Flew, Professor of Philosophy at Reading University. In response to Minogue's questions Flew distinguishes three ideals for equality and states that N.U.T. thinking on exams is confused. Halsey questions Flew about the social background of Eton's boys and on the role of the old grammar schools in fostering equalisation of opportunity.
Master spool number: OU3800
Production number: FOUE089B
Videofinder number: 542
Available to public: no