Decentralization, Citizen Participation, and the Role of the State: The Autonomous Schools Program in Nicaragua

In: Latin American perspectives: a journal on capitalism and socialism, Band 26, S. 8-38

Abstract

Examines strengths & weaknesses of Nicaraguan educational reforms, characterized by decentralization, increased parent responsibility, & control by school-site councils. Based on published data & 155 interviews with reform participants in Managua & the departments of Matagalpa & Leon in 1996, the autonomous schools program is described, showing how schools make the transition from traditional to autonomous & highlighting the roles of teachers, parents, & school administrators. The importance of fees to provide educational resources & augment teacher salaries is acknowledged, but concerns about inequity & class struggle are expressed. 3 Tables, 22 References. T. Noland