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 in-text references
Humanising pedagogy is an educational approach that aims to transform the traditional teacher-student relationship into a more inclusive and equitable partnership. It centers on the idea that education should not only transmit knowledge, but also foster critical thinking, empathy, and social consciousness. Humanising pedagogy recognizes and respects the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of learners, placing an emphasis on their identity, culture, and lived realities in the learning process.
Decolonising education, as a supportive framework for humanising pedagogy, challenges the dominance of Eurocentric knowledge and perspectives in the curriculum. It seeks to dismantle the hierarchical structures and power imbalances that are inherent in colonial education systems, which tend to marginalize and dismiss indigenous and non-Western knowledge systems. By decolonising education, schools and teachers can incorporate diverse worldviews, experiences, and histories into the curriculum, giving voice and agency to students from marginalized communities.
Waghid’s African philosophy of education further contributes to the practice of humanising pedagogy. Drawing on African epistemology, Waghid argues for an educational approach that incorporates communal values, spirituality, and a sense of interconnectedness. In this philosophy of education, the goal is not only to transmit knowledge, but also to cultivate a sense of ubuntu, which emphasizes the interdependence and humanity of all individuals. By incorporating Waghid’s African philosophy of education, educators can engage learners in dialogues that promote empathy, respect, and understanding of others, fostering a transformative learning experience.
In summary, humanising pedagogy requires an approach that goes beyond the transmission of knowledge and recognizes the diverse identities and experiences of learners. Decolonising education challenges colonial hierarchies and allows for the inclusion of multiple perspectives and knowledge systems in the curriculum. Waghid’s African philosophy of education adds an emphasis on communal values and interconnectedness, contributing to the development of a transformative and humanising pedagogy.
Humanising pedagogy is an approach to education that aims to prioritize the holistic development and well-being of students, fostering a sense of agency, empathy, and critical consciousness. It recognizes students as active participants in their learning process and seeks to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Two key components that facilitate the practice of humanising pedagogy are decolonising education and Waghid's African philosophy of education.
Point 1: Decolonising education is an important factor in practising humanising pedagogy. It involves questioning and challenging the dominant narratives, structures, and practices that perpetuate colonial ideologies within education systems. By decolonising education, teachers can create a space where multiple perspectives, histories, and knowledge systems are acknowledged and valued. This process both empowers marginalized voices and encourages critical thinking among students, promoting a more inclusive and equitable learning environment.
Reference: In the book "Decolonising the University," Ahmed et al. (2017) highlight how decolonising education can disrupt the power dynamics embedded in traditional pedagogical frameworks, allowing for a more humanising approach.
Point 2: Waghid's African philosophy of education aligns closely with humanising pedagogy. This philosophy emphasizes ubuntu, a central concept in African traditions that reflects interconnectedness, compassion, and a recognition of our shared humanity. Waghid argues that education should be grounded in ubuntu principles, where relationships, dialogue, and ethical responsibility are central. By prioritizing the development of empathy, respect, and social consciousness, Waghid's philosophy supports the practice of humanising pedagogy, as it promotes authentic engagement with the diverse experiences and perspectives of students.
Reference: Waghid (2014) explores how African philosophy of education, with its ubuntu principles, can inform pedagogical practices that foster humanisation in education.
In conclusion, humanising pedagogy incorporates decolonising education and Waghid's African philosophy of education. These two elements allow for the practice of humanising pedagogy by challenging colonial narratives and fostering inclusive and equitable learning environments, as well as by promoting empathy, dialogue, and ethical responsibility among students. By prioritizing students' well-being, agency, and critical consciousness, humanising pedagogy aims to create a transformative educational experience that respects and values the diverse identities and experiences of students.
References:
Ahmed, S., Castañeda, L., & Bhambra, G. K. (Eds.). (2017). Decolonising the University. Pluto Press.
Waghid, Y. (2014). African Philosophy of Education: Reconsidering Ubuntu. African Sun Media.
Humanising pedagogy is an educational approach that seeks to prioritize the holistic development of students by fostering empathy, critical thinking, and a sense of belonging in the learning process. It aims to create a supportive and inclusive educational environment that values students' identities, cultures, and experiences.
Decolonising education is an effort to challenge and dismantle the remnants of colonial influences and biases within educational systems. It involves reexamining and recentering knowledge production and teaching methods to include marginalized perspectives, indigenous knowledge systems, and non-Western epistemologies. The process of decolonising education aims to rectify historical inequalities and promote a more equitable and inclusive learning environment.
Waghid's African philosophy of education, rooted in ubuntu, can contribute to the practice of humanising pedagogy. Ubuntu is an African worldview that emphasizes interconnectedness, empathy, and communal responsibility. It recognizes the importance of recognizing and valuing others' humanity in order to foster learning and development.
By integrating Waghid's African philosophy of education, educators can create an educational environment that embodies the principles of ubuntu, where students are seen as individuals who are part of a larger community. This philosophy promotes respect, dialogue, and inclusivity and can contribute to the nurturing of a sense of belonging and empowerment among students. It allows educators to engage with students' diverse identities and experiences, facilitating a more holistic and equitable learning process.
In conclusion, humanising pedagogy, coupled with efforts to decolonise education and incorporating Waghid's African philosophy of education, can lead to educational practices that prioritize the well-being and development of students. This approach facilitates a more inclusive and empowering learning environment that values diversity, promotes critical thinking, and fosters a sense of belonging among students.
Note: In-text references can be added based on the specific sources you have consulted for each point, using appropriate citation styles.