Schools of education are notorious for their emphasis on liberal education theories, including "student centered learning," "group learning," and "collaborative learning." These theories emphasize "feelings," "self esteem," and the role of the teacher as a "facilitator."

In a July 20 op-ed piece in the New York Times, Heather MacDonald, contributing editor at the Manhattan Institute's City Journal, says "the 'collaborative' group reigns supreme in the student-centered classroom, where students allegedly teach each other." In fact, little or no learning occurs.

She blames schools of education, which "promote group learning incessantly," and says that their theories might be justified if they produced literate, knowledgeable students. But they do not.

MacDonald points out that "New York has the opportunity to lead the way" to change by expediting entry into the classroom of teachers "with a firm grasp of subject matter and basic skills."