In reply to Will Richardson.

I read his book 'Engines for Education', several years ago, but not 'Teaching Minds'. I assume you would recommend it, Will? The book that had the most influence on my perspectives on public education was 'The Educated Mind: How Cognitive Tools Shape Our Understanding', by Kieran Egan. http://www.amazon.com/Educated-Mind-Cognitive-Tools-Understanding/dp/0226190390