Abstract

The aim of this review study is to reflect on the main directions of the transformation of primary education in the Czech Republic in the last thirty years in the broader context of the social and political changes since 1989 and from an international perspective. Selected phenomena will be analysed with respect to the trends in primary education in developed countries, as well as with respect to the traditional concepts of education in our region.

The reform processes will be presented in terms of: (1) education policy; (2) the theoretical background and key concepts, and (3) practical attempts to transform primary education in the reality of school practice.

In terms of education policy the study focuses on major trends in management, legislation, curriculum materials, etc. The next part deals with the transformation of primary education in relation to external and internal reforms, with an emphasis on the internal reform of primary schools. On the basis of a careful analysis of relevant sources, the study will define the key principles of child-centred primary education with respect to its overall concept, goals, content, and teaching strategies.

Furthermore, as a follow-up to the goals of education policy, planned changes, and the theoretical framework, the study will analyse the real-life transformation of primary schools, focusing on major trends in transforming the concept of primary education, including preeminent pedagogic approaches, innovative projects, and alternative theories.

Finally, in the concluding part I will discuss the difficulties and challenges of the present state of affairs. Against the background of the changing context (social requirements, changing characteristics of the child population) and current challenges, possible ways of developing the field of primary education further will be presented.