Teaching Character and Virtue in Schools (Citizenship, Character and Values Education)

Book Details

• Author: James Arthur

• Publisher: Routledge

• Language: English

• Edition: 1

• ISBN: 9780815360919

• Pages: 212

• Cover: Paperback

• Package Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.1 x 0.5 inches

About The Book
Teaching Character and Virtue in Schools explores the contemporary challenges faced in educational settings, specifically the issues of quantification and measurement that impact teachers’ ability to develop students' character. James Arthur draws from research conducted by the Jubilee Centre at the University of Birmingham to investigate how professional discretion and sound judgement of teachers are being undermined by administrators, policymakers, and inspectors. This shift is harming the growth of pupils' character, a concern the book seeks to address.

The book argues that education should go beyond subject competence and emphasize the cultivation of practical wisdom and good character in teachers. Arthur suggests that virtues of good character can be learned and taught, positioning character education as an intrinsic and intentional part of the educational process. By blending research from educational studies, psychology, sociology, philosophy, and theology, the book offers a comprehensive examination of contemporary educational practices and their broader societal impact.

The text presents practical tools, including sample lessons and a framework for character education, advocating that character education should help students understand what is ethically important and how to act for the right reasons. This approach empowers students to become autonomous, reflective individuals within a democratic society.

Ideal for educators, researchers, and policy analysts, this book provides valuable insights into the vital role of character development in education and its broader implications for society.