The 40+ Best Documentaries About Education, Ranked
- 1
Class Dismissed: a Film About Learning Outside of the Classroom
Exploring the alternative education movement, this documentary follows a California family that decides to homeschool their two children, providing viewers with an in-depth look at unconventional educational approaches. The film showcases various learning methods geared towards developing holistic skills and fostering creativity, rather than simply focusing on standardized testing. By featuring interviews with educators, experts, and other families, the documentary delves into the question of whether traditional school systems are adequately preparing students for the challenges they'll face in the 21st century.
Narrated by Matt Damon, this compelling film delves into the lives of four passionate educators working tirelessly to make a difference in their students’ lives despite numerous obstacles including low pay, lack of resources, and overwhelming workloads. Showcasing both the personal sacrifices and the incredible dedication of these teachers, the documentary underscores the need to provide better support and recognition for these invaluable professionals. By highlighting the systemic challenges facing today's educators, the film serves as a timely reminder of the critical role teachers play in shaping the future of society and the necessity of prioritizing their well-being and success.
3Race to Nowhere
Challenging the conventional wisdom of "more is better" when it comes to academic achievement, this documentary exposes the hidden costs of relentless competition, standardized testing, and extracurricular activities for students. Through interviews with students, parents, and educators, the film paints a distressing picture of a generation under immense pressure to succeed at all costs, often leading to anxiety, depression, and burnout. By considering alternative approaches to education that prioritize students' mental health and happiness, the documentary aims to spark a much-needed conversation around the need for change in America's school system.
4The War on Kids
Shining a light on the punitive nature of many American public schools, this documentary explores the negative consequences of zero-tolerance policies and high-stakes testing on student well-being and learning outcomes. The film features interviews with students, teachers, parents, and experts who share their perspectives on how these stringent measures contribute to a hostile and unproductive learning environment, hindering the development of critical thinking skills. Ultimately, it raises important questions about whether the current educational approach adequately prepares children for success in life and fosters the empathy and understanding needed for a more compassionate society.
5Precious Knowledge
This powerful documentary tells the story of a group of students and teachers fighting for the survival of their Mexican American Studies program, following a controversial Arizona law that threatens to dismantle ethnic studies classes. The film deftly tackles issues of racism, educational inequality, and cultural identity as it documents the inspiring efforts of these individuals to preserve their heritage and history. Ultimately, the documentary serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of representation and inclusivity in education, as well as the need for a curriculum that reflects and speaks to diverse student populations.
Directed by Davis Guggenheim, this acclaimed documentary takes a hard look at the failures of public education in the United States, focusing on the experiences of five children navigating an often-unforgiving system. The film examines issues like the achievement gap, teacher tenure, and charter schools, ultimately advocating for educational reform and increased choice for families. Its emotive portrayal of the challenges faced by students and their families has ignited a national conversation about the importance of equitable access to quality education for all children.
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7Heather Berman, Emma Therese Biegacki, Eva CarrozzaDelving into the world of ballroom dancing for New York City's public school students, this endearing documentary takes viewers on a journey with a group of 11-year-olds as they prepare for a citywide dance competition. Through dance lessons, the children acquire critical life skills, such as discipline, teamwork, and self-confidence, which help them navigate their unique challenges in school and beyond. By capturing the transformational impact of arts education on these young lives, the film demonstrates the potential of non-traditional teaching methods for personal growth and academic success.
Winner of the 1993 Academy Award for Best Documentary, this gripping film documents a year in the life of a struggling inner-city school in Philadelphia, shining a light on the myriad challenges faced by students and educators in such environments. The filmmakers take viewers inside the classrooms and homes of the school's predominantly African-American student population, providing an intimate glimpse into the daily struggles they confront, including poverty, violence, and systemic racism. By humanizing the issue of educational inequality, the documentary underscores the urgent need to address these disparities and ensure every child has an equal opportunity to succeed.
- 9
Ivory Tower
Elizabeth Armstrong, Richard Arum, Jamshed BharuchaExamining the soaring costs of higher education in the United States, this thought-provoking documentary delves into the myriad reasons behind skyrocketing tuition fees and the resulting financial burden on students and their families. Interviewing experts, educators, and students, the film questions the value of a college degree in today's world, especially given mounting student debt and an increasingly competitive job market. In doing so, it highlights the need for reform and innovation in the higher education sector, challenging viewers to consider what a truly equitable and sustainable system might look like.
10Grey Matters: Teaching The Way the Brain Learns
Exploring the fascinating world of neuroscience and its applications in the classroom, this thought-provoking documentary showcases cutting-edge research on how the brain learns and processes information. Through interviews with experts and educators, the film offers insights into innovative teaching methods and strategies that align with the latest scientific understanding of brain function, aiming to optimize student learning and retention. By bridging the gap between educational practice and neuroscientific discovery, the documentary urges the cultivation of a more brain-friendly approach to teaching and learning.
11Teached
This documentary series explores the deeply rooted racial inequalities within America’s education system, using powerful personal stories and expert insights to dissect the complex factors that contribute to the achievement gap. Each episode covers a different aspect of the issue, such as school discipline, special education, and parent involvement, in order to give viewers a comprehensive understanding of the barriers that many marginalized students face. By confronting these uncomfortable truths, the series aims to spark action and inspire change in pursuit of a more equitable education system for all.
12The Cartel
Investigating the intricacies of New Jersey's public education system, this hard-hitting documentary exposes the corruption, inefficiency, and political manipulation at play within the state's schools. By delving into the inner workings of teacher unions, administration salaries, and government funding, the film reveals a troubling reality where money and power often trump the best interests of students. By shedding light on these issues, the documentary challenges viewers to confront the difficult question of whether America's educational systems are truly designed to serve their intended purpose - providing high-quality learning opportunities for all.
Captivating viewers with its insightful, human-centric approach, this documentary follows eight diverse kids as they compete in the National Spelling Bee, delving into their lives, motivations, and unique journeys. The film not only highlights the intense dedication and unbelievable talent of these young spellers but also provides a fascinating glimpse into the cultural and socioeconomic forces that shape their educational experiences. By presenting an authentic look at America’s diverse student population, the documentary serves as a testament to the transformative power of education and the importance of nurturing every child's potential.
14Cory Booker, Geoffrey Canada, Joel KleinCentering on the emotionally charged world of public school lotteries, this eye-opening documentary chronicles the nail-biting experiences of four families vying for a spot in one of New York City's most successful charter schools. The film exposes the desperation faced by parents and children in underperforming school districts, underscoring the inequitable access to quality education that often hinges on luck rather than merit. By highlighting the immense demand for better educational options, the documentary raises important questions about the role of charter schools and the broader need for systemic reform.
15Our School
Chronicling the experiences of three Roma (Gypsy) children in a rural Transylvanian village as they attempt to integrate into the mainstream Romanian school system, this poignant documentary exposes the deep-rooted prejudices and inequities faced by this marginalized population. The film captures the daily challenges, triumphs, and frustrations of these resilient youngsters and their dedicated teachers, illustrating the transformative potential of education to bridge cultural divides and combat discrimination. By giving voice to those most affected by these issues, the documentary serves as a powerful call to action for the global community to prioritize equal access to quality education for all.
Set in a Chinese primary school, this fascinating documentary captures the complexities of politics and democracy through the eyes of young children as they participate in their first-ever class monitor election. As the kids learn the ropes of campaigning, debating, and negotiating, viewers get a rare glimpse into the social dynamics at play within this culturally distinct setting. The film masterfully illustrates how even the most innocent and genuine intentions can be influenced by outside factors, shedding light on the wider implications of political processes and offering valuable insights into human behavior.
17Two Million Minutes: The 21st Century Solution
Comparing the educational experiences of students in the United States, India, and China, this eye-opening documentary unveils the stark differences in expectations, curriculum, and outcomes among these nations. Throughout the film, viewers are exposed to the rigorous and highly disciplined learning environments of Indian and Chinese students, prompting difficult questions about America's comparatively relaxed education system and its ability to prepare future generations for global competitiveness. By highlighting the shortcomings and potential solutions, the documentary urges a reevaluation of American educational priorities and practices in order to thrive in the increasingly interconnected 21st-century world.
18Ben SteinFeaturing noted journalist Ben Stein, this controversial documentary examines the ongoing debate between proponents of intelligent design and defenders of Darwinian evolution in educational institutions. The film presents interviews with scientists and academics who claim to have faced retribution and discrimination due to their support for intelligent design and questions the degree of intellectual freedom within academia. By exploring the tensions between science, faith, and education, the documentary encourages viewers to consider what constitutes true academic freedom and the extent to which critical inquiry is suppressed or limited in modern educational settings.
Revisiting a southern California high school in the 1980s, this engaging documentary provides a nostalgic glimpse into the joys, trials, and tribulations of teenage life while highlighting the cultural and social forces that shape American education. Through the lens of a Finnish exchange student experiencing suburban American high school culture for the first time, the film offers unique insights into the distinct values and norms that permeate US classrooms. By depicting these formative years with humor and poignancy, the documentary invites viewers to reflect on the impact of their own educational experiences and the enduring influence of schooling on individual identity and personal growth.
20Tom BosleyThis heartwarming documentary tells the inspiring story of a small-town middle school in Tennessee that launches a unique Holocaust education project, collecting millions of paper clips to represent the lives lost during this dark chapter in history. As the students delve into Holocaust studies and connect with survivors, they learn powerful lessons about empathy, tolerance, and the importance of remembering the past to build a better future. By showcasing the profound impact of this unorthodox educational endeavor, the film demonstrates the potential for creative teaching methods to foster meaningful connections and promote social justice.
21Adam Carolla, Dennis Prager, Jordan PetersonNarrated by comedian Adam Carolla and conservative radio host Dennis Prager, this provocative documentary investigates the erosion of free speech and intellectual diversity on college campuses across America. Featuring interviews with scholars, students, and public figures, the film exposes instances of censorship and ideological conformity in higher education and questions the implications for critical thinking and open dialogue in these settings. By spotlighting these concerning trends, the documentary calls on viewers to champion the values of free speech and intellectual freedom as fundamental components of a truly inclusive and vibrant educational environment.
22A Touch of Greatness
Celebrating the pioneering educational philosophy of Albert Cullum, an elementary school teacher who pushed the boundaries of traditional teaching methods during the 1960s, this uplifting documentary reveals the profound impact of creativity and imagination in unlocking children's potential. Through a mix of archival footage and interviews with former students and colleagues, the film showcases Cullum's innovative approach, which included introducing Shakespeare, poetry, and drama into his curriculum. By honoring the legacy of this groundbreaking educator, the documentary issues a powerful reminder of the transformative role that passionate teachers can play in shaping young minds and lives.
Capturing the trials and triumphs of an ethnically diverse group of first-graders in a French primary school, this heartwarming documentary offers a rare glimpse into the daily lives of young students and their dedicated teacher. As the film unfolds, viewers witness the many challenges facing the children, from language barriers to behavioral issues, as well as the unwavering support and guidance of their compassionate instructor. By presenting an authentic portrait of the joys, struggles, and growth experienced within the classroom, the documentary highlights the critical importance of early childhood education and the lasting impact of a caring teacher.
24Jewel Staite, Samuel Ball, Heather HabeckerBased on the bestselling book, this compelling documentary tells the true story of three African American friends from a rough neighborhood in Newark, New Jersey, who make a pact to become doctors and escape the cycle of poverty and violence. Chronicling their remarkable journey from inner-city high school students to medical professionals, the film deftly explores issues of race, class, and education while illustrating the transformative power of determination and perseverance. By celebrating the triumphant achievement of these inspiring individuals, the documentary seeks to ignite hope and motivate others to rise above their circumstances through education.
- 25
The Textbooks
Focusing on the fascinating history and controversial role of textbooks within education, this insightful documentary explores how these seemingly innocuous resources can shape students' understanding of the world. The film delves into the politics of textbook selection, exposing instances where special interest groups have wielded significant influence over the content presented to impressionable young learners. By revealing the hidden power dynamics at play in determining which narratives and perspectives are privileged or marginalized in educational materials, the documentary underscores the crucial importance of critical thinking and media literacy for students navigating an increasingly complex information landscape.
26Unfinished Spaces
Exploring the complex intersection of politics, architecture, and education in revolutionary Cuba, this visually stunning documentary chronicles the creation and subsequent abandonment of the National Art Schools, a groundbreaking architectural project commissioned by Fidel Castro and Che Guevara in the early 1960s. The film delves into the artistic, ideological, and bureaucratic struggles that have defined the schools' history, capturing the indelible link between education and the larger sociopolitical context. By weaving together past and present, the documentary offers a profound meditation on the role of art, education, and creative expression in shaping both individual and collective identity.
27Resolved
Ilya Semenov, Lina Safiulina, Alexander KashkurovDiving into the fiercely competitive world of high school policy debate, this enthralling documentary follows two underprivileged teenagers from inner-city Los Angeles as they go head-to-head with their affluent counterparts from elite schools across the nation. The film captures the students' incredible dedication, determination, and intellectual prowess, highlighting the impact of debate education on critical thinking, communication skills, and self-confidence. By chronicling this transformative journey, the documentary underscores the importance of providing equal access to enriching educational opportunities for all students, regardless of background or circumstance.
28Building Hope
Willie Nelson, Cameron Sinclair, Turk PipkinChronicling the inspiring efforts of a Texas-based nonprofit to build the first high school in a remote, impoverished region of Kenya, this heartwarming documentary showcases the powerful potential of community-driven educational projects. The film documents the many obstacles faced by the dedicated team of volunteers and Kenyan partners, as well as the life-changing impact the completed school has on the local community. By demonstrating the transformative power of education to lift individuals and communities out of poverty, the documentary serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the immense value of cross-cultural collaboration.
29Strangers No More
Set within the diverse and multicultural Bialik-Rogozin School in Tel Aviv, Israel, this moving documentary follows the daily lives of young refugees and asylum seekers from dozens of different countries as they forge friendships, overcome trauma, and find solace in the classroom. Through intimate interviews and poignant personal stories, the film illuminates the resilience and courage of these students and showcases the tremendous impact of education on the lives of those who have experienced unimaginable hardship. In doing so, it highlights the universality of the human experience and the extraordinary power of empathy and connection in fostering hope and healing.
30Invisible City
Shining a light on the challenges faced by at-risk youth in Toronto's Regent Park neighborhood, this hard-hitting documentary takes viewers inside the lives of two teenagers navigating the complex realities of poverty, crime, and educational inequality. The film captures the struggle for hope and opportunity amid a landscape of systemic barriers, illustrating the urgent need for intervention and support for vulnerable young people. By giving voice to those on the margins, the documentary raises important questions about the role of education and social policy in addressing the root causes of urban poverty and inequality.
