Response to Kumashiro’s “Against Common Sense” Chapter 2

Kumashiro describes the ideal student as one that:

• closely follow instructions
• shares the same values as their teachers
• sits still
• works quietly
• follows all of the school rules
• does not exhibit conflict with other students or teachers

These ideas of common sense are centered around the majority of students and excludes the students that belong to minority groups. Curriculum is a cultural and social practice that should be designed around all students not just one. The common sense in education should be considered in more of a student-centered way.

Kumashiro, K. K. (2015). Against Common Sense. doi:10.4324/9781315765525