Exploring the changing role of education under the influence of global neoliberal reforms in Lebanon. (c2017)

Abstract

This qualitative research aims to explore if and how neoliberal ideals- such as skills regarded necessary for the increase in market productivity and pertinent for prospective jobs, are influencing the education sector. This occurs by eliciting students and academic personnel’s view on the skills and traits perceived as essential for their students to possess, and the factors that influence first year students’ choice in major. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews and analysis of certain national curriculum documents. The study findings indicate that neoliberalism is in fact swaying various facets within the realm of education towards its ideal. This is seen through students gravitating towards majors that would secure job opportunities, academic personnel attaching value to traits such as kindness and discipline, and skills that are part of the 21st century umbrella, and how points in the national curriculum relate to economic and social development.