National Standards Reform: The New Zealand Case

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Abstract

This paper reports findings from a qualitative case study of the impact of the introduction of National Standards in New Zealand elementary schools. We report on teachers’ and school leaders’ responses to the government mandate to adopt and implement National Standards – a reform that represents a significant change in national policy and educational practice. This study shows how educators’ cultural beliefs and attitudes regarding the purpose of education, and institutional factors at the school level influence the use of Standards. The study provides new information for policy makers internationally as they attempt to address educators’ beliefs and practices in the interest of educational change.

Authors

• Lea A. Hubbard, University of San Diego

• Brian Annan, The University of Auckland