The educational imagination: On the design and evaluation of school programs

Gives insight on historic evolution of schooling/educational practices and current idelogies. Discusses advantages and disadvantages, mainly from the author's perspective.

This is a curriculum-based book that I am using at the graduate level for a program evaluation course. Although it does not have much use for program evaluation unless the program is curriculum, Eisner is a renowned expert on curriculum foundations and evaluation. Although somewhat dated in light of the current standards movement, Eisner does discuss the implications of curriculum revision and leadership in relationship to Goals 2000, which was emerging as the book was published. Although not a "page turner," The Educational Imagination is a useful resource for curriculum leadership.

I have used this text for several years for graduate students in education. Eisner is a very thoughtful writer and students often find him inspiring, although there are always those who find him long-winded. However, this summer when I saw the price I decided this would be the last time I'd use it. $79. incl tax! That's ridiculous. At this rate, the college textbook market will surely become obsolete. It's a shame.