Comparative Study of English and International Education Systems

Thesis/ Structure of Argument

A comparative study of the English education system with an international education system.
1. Introduction (250 - 300 words approx.) - LO2
What is the value of international comparison?
How does international comparison affect education systems, in general? This could link to globalisation.
State which education system you have chosen to compare with the English education system.
2. Thesis/ Structure of argument (200-250 words) - LO1
Outline and justify your examination of pedagogy, ideology and sociological factors within the essay.
State the key three or four themes that you will focus on within this argument and explain why you feel these are key to the question (eg curriculum, assessment, accountability).
3. Theme 1: Approaches to schooling (400 - 600 words) - LO3/LO4
Explain how both countries education systems are organised: including pedagogy, curriculum and assessment.
Choose your first theme (e.g. pedagogy).
Reflect upon the main similarities and differences between both countries – what lay behind these differences? 
Evaluate the reasons for these practices – draw out the ideologies which are behind these practices.
Provide specific examples from practice and policy from both countries. You may also introduce other countries that provide a similar or contrasting example, if this will add to your argument.
Evaluate the effect and impact of these local practices. What are their strengths and limitations? Use international comparisons where possible (including statistics, eg PISA).
4. Theme 2: Curriculum (400-600 words) - LO3/LO4
Choose your second theme (eg curriculum).
Reflect upon the main similarities and differences between both countries – what lay behind these differences? 
Evaluate the reasons for these practices – draw out the ideologies which are behind these practices.
Provide specific examples from practice and policy from both countries. You may also introduce other countries that provide a similar or contrasting example, if this will add to your argument.
Evaluate the effect and impact of these local practices. What are their strengths and limitations? Use international comparisons where possible (including statistics, eg PISA).
How is the curriculum designed to support the needs of the learners you have identified? What is the experience in both countries of the group of learners you have chosen to look at? How do they compare? 
5. Theme 3: assessment (400 - 600 words) - LO3/LO4
Choose your third theme (eg assessment).
Reflect upon the main similarities and differences between both countries – what lay behind these differences? 
Evaluate the reasons for these practices – draw out the ideologies which are behind these practices.
Provide specific examples from practice and policy from both countries. You may also introduce other countries that provide a similar or contrasting example, if this will add to your argument.
Evaluate the effect and impact of these local practices. What are their strengths and limitations? Use international comparisons where possible (including statistics, eg PISA).
How is the approach to assessment designed to support the needs of the learners you have identified? What inclusion practices exist? What is the experience in both countries of the group of learners you have chosen to look at? How do they compare? 
6. Conclusion/ Next steps (200 - 300 words approx.) - LO1/LO2
Provide a summary of your argument, detailing the main similarities and differences between the two countries, and the reasons for them. Which education system is seen as more internationally respected or excellent? Do you agree with this opinion (use your critique to support your argument)? Could policies, practices and approaches be adopted by the other country and why do you think this? What are the potential implications for adopting practices from one country to another (sociological, ideological and political viewpoints)? Has globalisation had a positive or negative effect on both country’s education system?