Contemporary Issues in Education Research Paper

Contemporary Issues in Education - Research Paper Example Mostly, books, journals, and online sources were incorporated in the study with a view of collecting the most comprehensive information that would help expand the dimensions of the debate. The study was primarily based on public school students in the United States. However, the tone of the arguments extended beyond the specifics in the American context to a global context. From the literature explored, it was found out that both the supporters and those opposed to the culture of school uniforms have important points that merit some critical focus. There was no final answer to the question regarding the relevance of school uniforms for students in public schools. There was no evidence to indicate any association between wearing of uniforms to cognitive development or academic performance for students in public schools as compared to those who do not wear uniforms. The study did not establish any particular preferences from either side as each articulated a range of perspectives on th e same matter. The study also discovered some points of convergence on both sides of the controversy especially regarding the matter of student security as enhanced by wearing of uniforms in public schools. ... in the fact that the subject of discussion cuts into the discourses of freedom, choice, discipline, costs, maters of policy, and various other concerns that relate in concentric circles of perspectives (Burkemper, 2008). The need to uphold tradition and schooling culture comes into conflict with perspectives that favor cultural change with both positions containing a corpus of related concepts that revolve around morality, individual liberties, social order, and security concerns. Few empirical studies have been carried out concerning the preference of the students, teachers, parents, and general society on the matter of school uniforms in public schools. However available qualitative studies provide strong indications of fragmented support on either side of the divide. Currently, no definite or absolute positions exist regarding the subject matter. Other important factors that have weighed into the controversy include the possible impact of the school uniform policy on academic perf ormance, cognitive development, and personality influences (Burkemper, 2008). The debate on school uniforms has been stretched beyond the limits of academic matters to incorporate societal perceptions and the prevalent risks that lie on both sides of the argument. Further, comparative studies conducted on the different aspects of the debate have produced competing expert opinions on the matter. It would seem that there can be no definite last answer regarding the question of whether or not students in public schools should wear school uniforms. Discussion The policy of wearing school uniforms is nearly as old as the formal education system itself. In the course of the historical development of education, both private and public schools have upheld the tradition of school uniforms for their