The Purpose & Practice of Education: A Critical Approach for Developing Curriculum provides students with a unique opportunity to learn about and analyze key educational phenomena, including educational systems, the history of education and schooling, educational theories and philosophies, curriculum development, instruction and supervision, and the impact of policies and politics on educational practice at all levels. The book challenges students to critically examine their own teaching philosophies, as well as the philosophies of others, to better understand the factors that influence and inform their practices. In doing so, readers gain a deeper understanding of the biases they bring to the practice of education and the development of curriculum. They are then encouraged to rethink the contexts in which educational and curriculum decisions are made, and empowered to suggest innovative alternatives to traditional educational practices. The Purpose & Practice of Education features essay questions, statements, and arguments from diverse sources that are applicable to various professional and educational contexts. The text is written and organized in such a way to stimulate powerful discussion and assist students in writing research and capstone papers. It is well suited for any undergraduate or graduate-level educational program, and can also be used in diverse educational settings.