Apple’s Impact on Education: A Global Perspective

• In Event: Celebrating Five Decades of Curriculum Theorizing and Praxis: The Enduring Impact of Michael Apple’s Contributions

Abstract

Apple’s critical voice and groundbreaking theories have left a lasting impact on education systems and practices beyond national borders. This presentation explores the significant global influence of Michael Apple’s scholarship and activist work, with a particular focus on Ireland, Israel/Palestine, and South Korea. From his early works like Ideology and Curriculum, Knowledge and Power, to his recent book Can Education Change Society?, his contributions have been deeply impactful, widely appreciated, and respected. This presentation analyzes how his ideas have helped counter the neoliberal tide that threatens efforts to support quality education worldwide and how his mentoring has inspired transformative academic endeavors.

In Ireland, Apple’s work has played a crucial role in mitigating the negative effects of the neoliberal agenda on education. His influential books, such as Democratic Schools, Educating the “Right” Way, and Can Education Change Society?, have provided valuable insights and guidance for educators and policymakers alike. His visits to Ireland have further solidified his impact, as he personally engaged with educators and activists, fostering a spirit of resistance against the neoliberal tide. Apple’s support in establishing the University College Dublin (UCD) Equality Studies Centre and the UCD School of Social Justice has been pivotal in promoting emancipatory and innovative education and research, inspiring a generation of scholars to continue the struggle for social justice.

Given the ongoing discussions surrounding Israel/Palestine, the panelist in this presentation also discusses how Apple’s theories shed light on the current reality. His critical perspectives on power, knowledge, and ideology provide valuable frameworks to analyze the complexities of the region’s democratic education. Furthermore, the region’s diverse society poses unique challenges and opportunities for its education system, particularly in multicultural schools where students from various religious, national, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds come together. By examining Apple’s work in countering hegemonic narratives, we can gain deeper insights into the challenges and opportunities for democratic ideals and social justice.

In South Korea, Apple’s theories and experiences significantly influenced the country’s educational landscape, particularly during the nation’s democratization process. Despite the banning of his book Ideology and Curriculum, progressive teachers and educators clandestinely read and referred to it, propelling the democratic educational movement during the late 1980s. Collaborating with Korean Teachers Unions and progressive organizations, Apple’s life history is highly integrated with the history of democratization of Korean education. His work fostered a democratic curricular movement among educators and shaped the transformation of the education system during this critical period.

Apple’s impact on education is far-reaching and multifaceted, encompassing diverse regions and contexts. His critical voice and theories have helped to resist neoliberal influences in education and foster democratic movements in various countries. Educators and scholars have been inspired by his mentorship and transformative ideas. As we continue to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of education, the inspiration derived from Apple’s work will undoubtedly remain an invaluable resource for advancing social justice and democratic principles in global education systems.

Authors

• Kathleen Lynch, University College Dublin

• Assaf Meshulam, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev

• Youl-Kwan Sung, Kyung Hee University

• Mia Kang, Utah Valley University