Humanising pedagogy is an educational approach that seeks to prioritize the humanity and dignity of students. It aims to create learning environments that acknowledge and respect students' cultural backgrounds, life experiences, and individual needs. Humanising pedagogy is rooted in the belief that every student is an individual with unique strengths, abilities, and aspirations, and that their education should be personalized to meet their holistic development.
Decolonising education is an essential aspect of humanising pedagogy. It involves challenging and dismantling the structures and practices inherited from colonial systems and ideologies. Decolonising education acknowledges the historical and ongoing oppression and marginalization of Indigenous peoples and people of color and aims to promote equity, justice, and emancipation in education. By decentering the dominant Eurocentric perspectives and curriculum, decolonising education creates space for diverse knowledges, voices, and ways of knowing to be valued and respected.
Waghid's African philosophy of education provides a framework that allows for the practice of humanising pedagogy. According to Waghid, African philosophy of education emphasizes ubuntu, which is a Bantu term that means "I am because you are." It recognizes the interconnectedness of individuals and promotes an ethic of care, compassion, and mutual respect. Ubuntu encourages educators to build relationships with students based on trust and empathy, and to create learning environments that foster dialogue, collaboration, and collective responsibility.
Waghid's African philosophy of education aligns with humanising pedagogy by emphasizing the importance of recognizing and valuing students' personal and cultural identities. It promotes the development of an inclusive and supportive learning community where students feel seen, heard, and understood. By embracing ubuntu, educators can establish learning environments that prioritize collaboration, empathy, and social connection. This philosophy allows for the creation of educational spaces that promote holistic development and empower students to contribute meaningfully to their communities.
In conclusion, humanising pedagogy is an educational approach that prioritizes the humanity and dignity of students. Decolonising education and Waghid's African philosophy of education provide frameworks that support the practice of humanising pedagogy by challenging dominant narratives and structures and promoting inclusive, empathetic, and community-oriented learning environments. These approaches enable educators to create educational spaces that honor and respect the diverse identities and experiences of students, fostering their holistic development and empowering them to make positive contributions to society.
References:
1. Freire, P. (1970). Pedagogy of the Oppressed. New York: Continuum.
2. Waghid, Y. (2003). African Philosophy of Education: A Logical Approach. Stellenbosch: University of Stellenbosch.
Describe what humanising pedagogy entails and discuss how decolonising education,
(Point 1); and Waghid’s African philosophy of education (point 2) allows for practising
humanising pedagogy.
Include references
1 answer
1 answer