Gouwens (education, Roosevelt U., Chicago) offers a comprehensive description and critique of educational reforms in the United States since the 1950s and links these policies to current crises in public school systems. Written for educators, policymakers and concerned parents, this volume employs the latest research data and case studies to show how educational reforms have been influenced by competing interests in economics, psychology and globalization. The author has included biographical information on noted school reformers, excerpts from notable legislation such as the No Child Left Behind Act and an extensive glossary. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)