Moderating the Debate

Moderating the Debate examines the complex and often problematic relations between education research, policy, and practice, and proposes ways to improve those relationships in the interest of meaningful reform. Drawing on his Burton and Inglis Lectures at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, Michael Feuer considers how the lessons of cognitive science might inform a more rational-and reasonable-approach to education research and policymaking. In this stimulating and insightful book, Feuer offers practical solutions to the impasses and disconnections that have chronically thwarted workable, sustained education reform. "Feuer offers and innovative blend of cognitive science, behavioral economics, and organization theory and winds up with a brilliant reappraisal of the promise and pitfalls of education policy. This book needs to be read by educators, social scientists, and anyone concerned with the future of schools and schooling." - Richard C. Atkinson, President Emeritus, University of California "These insightful, well-written, and often witty essays bring the light of cognitive science and careful rationality to the dark tunnel of education policy. With Feuer's expert-and thoroughly reasonable-guidance, the journey through that tunnel is more than worth it." -Marshall S. Smith, Education Program Director, The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation "Michael Feuer's argument is one that should be engaged by all who study and teach education. This is a must-read for faculty, students, policymakers, and practitioners alike." - Ellen Condliffe Lagemann, Charles Warren Professor of the History of American Education, Harvard Graduate School of Education "Michael Feuer draws on the teachings of cognitive psychology and behavioral economics-and on his deep experience in applying science to educational problems-to build a timely and persuasive case for an incremental approach to education reform." - Michael McPherson, President, The Spencer Foundation "Feuer's concise and elegant account of the complexity and limits of educational policy and scientific educational research lead to cautionary recommendations for policymakers and researchers alike; members of both groups should read this book. Moderating the Debate deserves a place alongside Lawrence Cremin's Popular Education and Its Discontents as a signal contribution to the national dialogue on educational reform." - Robert M. Hauser, Vilas Research Professor of Sociology, University of Wisconsin-Madison Michael J. Feuer is the executive director of the Division of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Education in the National Research Council of the National Academies. He was the first director of the Center for Education at the National Academies and the founding director of the Board on Testing and Assessment.