Educational systems and schooling are a socio-cultural, historical, political-economic, and philosophical phenomenon.  Educational leaders, as opposed to technicians, inform themselves on these social foundations of education as they seek to better the socio-cultural environment through education (social reconstruction) rather than merely “going along” (social reproduction)

The social foundations of education dictate the ever-important aims in education.  Understanding these foundations is critical for instructional leadership, as educational practices and policies derive from those aims.  What do you believe the ultimate goal of education should be?  Why do you think that?