Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book discusses the key issues in primary school education: appropriate provision and enabling pedagogies; languages of and for learning; patterns of inclusion and exclusion; teacher education and preparedness; and the impact of educational change and reform at local, national and global levels. It presents diverse experiences, practices and developments in global education. The research studies tend toward qualitative approaches and smallness of scale. The book focuses on contemporary events and education in specific contexts. The comparative focus is largely pragmatic, particularly in relation to pedagogy and teacher education. The book also discusses two methodologies: a local problemsolving approach focused on activity and practice, and an international orientation that draws on wider theory and knowledge.