Critical Social Inquiry 0249 - Introduction to Critical Pedagogy: Theories and Practices of Education for Social Change.

How do we move beyond assumptions that education is politically neutral and instead grab ahold of the potential of education as a vehicle for liberation? In this introductory education course, we will explore a tradition inspired by the work of the late Brazilian educator Paulo Freire: Critical Pedagogy. Critical pedagogy is a philosophy of education that promotes both critical consciousness raising and political action to struggle against oppression. Students will encounter the major tenets of Critical Pedagogy as articulated by a range of contemporary scholars and teachers; examine potential interpretations of Critical Pedagogy in the disciplines that interest them most (including the humanities, social sciences, sciences, and the arts) and as influenced by related theories (such as feminist theory, queer theory, disability studies, critical race studies, and more); and craft their own philosophies and practices in process by designing lesson plans and facilitating activities among their classmates. This course is reading and writing intensive, fully remote (there may be some optional in-person opportunities pending resources), and will require 6-8 hours of work outside of class time. Key words: education, social justice, politics, oppression

In/Justice This course is fully remote. Students should generally expect to spend 6-8 hours a week on work outside of class.