Watch Out for Unintended Consequences

Beware the law of unintended consequences – Editorial – Commentary – New Zealand Listener


Excerpt: 


This week’s Budget includes a decision to put teachers’ performance pay squarely on the to-do list, with the trade-off of higher classroom numbers. It’s a courageous move – and a tough political sales job. Already there have been howls of outrage. Green MP Catherine Delahunty says the policy puts the blame for poor performance on teachers, and Labour’s Nanaia Mahuta says it will erode the culture of collaboration and trust in our schools. Actually, the policy’s aim is to celebrate and reward teachers for their excellent work and encourage more of it. As for school culture, there is nothing positive about glossing over the fact that some poor and mediocre teachers do impede children’s learning. Ask any student.


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