Repositorio Académico

In this paper we reflect on the permeability of the Portuguese school system to the principles of privatization, competitiveness and accountability and on the discussion that followed it, analyzing the implementation of these mechanisms in Chile, which can be considered as one of the countries of the world where the logic of the market logic have gained more strength. To do this, first we review the discourses and practices that have developed in Portugal to promote the commercialization, competitiveness and accountability. Subsequently, we describe the implementation process and main consequences of the Chilean case, as privatization of the system, the increase of socioeconomic and academic segregation, a limitation of freedom of choice and the reduction in the role of education which this model has generated in more than 30 years of application. Considering this, in the last section the similarities and differences between the two countries and processes are discussed, showing the existence of discursive points of convergence but structural differences in the way of implementation of these policies, allowing some elements to deliver promotion a-grounded, broad and democratic debate on the role and significance of education in Portugal. © 2016, Edicoes Universitarias Lusofonas. All rights reserved.