In his eye-opening book "Literacy with an Attitude: Patrick Finn explores educational disparities by showing how the method of teaching literacy determines whether students gain empowerment or face suppression. Finn presses readers to reconsider educational aims and methods for working-class learners because he believes schools usually strengthen rather than dismantle social inequalities.
Finn expands upon Jean Anyon's foundational research which demonstrated the substantial differences in educational experiences between schools situated in varying socio-economic environments. In middle-class and affluent schools students learn critical thinking and leadership skills which enable them to gain power and influence. The educational approach in working-class schools emphasizes memorization and basic skills development while teaching students to follow orders which prepares them primarily for low-paying occupations instead of enabling them to engage actively in societal roles. Literacy with an attitude describes a method of critical literacy which enables students to examine and confront societal structures that affect them. Finn believes education should teach students reading and writing skills while also developing their ability to critically analyze social issues and promote reform.
To conclude, Finn makes a compelling statement essential to this conversation and he is clearly invested in creating a more equitable education system.
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