ABSTRACT
My approach to this exploration of transformation is to adopt an international perspective. A study of education in other countries is important for several reasons. First, to the extent that systems of education have common aspirations, strategies that have led to success in other places may be adopted or adapted in the local setting, and strategies that have proved unsuccessful elsewhere may be set aside in the search for solutions. Second, problems that appear intractable in the local setting may be the subject of fresh enquiry leading to possible resolution when approaches in other countries are critically examined. Third, knowledge of approaches in other places may suggest possibilities for critical scrutiny in the search for alternatives. Fourth, local policy and practice can be affirmed with knowledge that others have adopted similar approaches and have achieved success. In each instance it is acknowledged that a country should not adopt an approach from another setting in the absence of evidence that it suits the local scene. The insights in this chapter thus draw from my knowledge of what is occurring in many countries. I hope that the outcome will add value to each of us as we seek to lead the transformation of schools in the twentyfirst century.
