Everyone knows that education is important. We are confronted daily by discussion of it in the media and by politicians, but how much do we really know about education? Education: The Basics is a lively and engaging introduction to education as an academic subject, taking into account both theory and practice. Covering the schooling system, the nature of knowledge and methods of teaching, this book analyses the viewpoints of both teachers and pupils.

This fully updated second edition considers the many developments in education since the book was first released, brought about by political interventions and the changing social context, including the Covid-19 pandemic, new technologies, gender dysphoria and the deteriorating mental health of children and young people. Key questions are answered, including:

• What is education and what is it for?
• Where does education take place?
• How do we learn?
• Who are the students?
• What is being taught in schools and universities and why?
• What is the state of education across the world?

With further reading suggested throughout, Education: The Basics is essential for all those embarking on undergraduate courses in Education and Education Studies, for those with an involvement in teaching at all levels, and for those with a general interest in this vital topic.

Kay Wood was formerly the Head of the Department of Education and Childhood Studies at Bath Spa University, UK. She has experience of secondary teaching and in-school training, and for twelve years acted as Access tutor, promoting wider access to education at all levels. Her primary research interests are international education, the sociology of education and education policy.