Gutek 1 & 8

In Chapter 1 of Gutek's American Education in a Global Society, the emphasis on the importance of events taking place in remote countries is highlighted. Throughout history, we have interacted with foreign nations in such instances of war, trade, and politics. As we continue to hold relationships with these foreign countries and study their economic, political, and educational systems, it is important to understand how these operations affect our own society and cultures. In any relationship, it is important to understand both sides so that one party and their actions are not ruled out and undermined during certain situations. When both parties fully understand each other, the relationship can grow and the connections between us, and other peoples can be developed. In Chapter 8, Gutek explains how this concept of foreign understanding applies to education. The study of American education exists for many different purposes, two of which are seen as primary and most important: To develop and improve our educational system, and to better understand students of foreign backgrounds. Each region of the world has its own model of schooling. There are pros and cons of each and as we study these options, we are able to take certain aspects and use them to further build our own. As our country continues to become more diverse, these multicultural students must adjust to our educational systems. It is our job to help these students adapt and to alter our teaching styles to accommodate to some of their learning techniques. As we study a global society we must define the reasons why we are studying it, and how we can benefit from its understanding.