ChrisSpenceCMS
The views of present day educational philosophy are quite different as compared to traditional philosophies. The most interesting contemporary perspective is of Paulo Freire, a Brazilian educator and philosopher. His approach is that of a pedagogical nature and revolves around student “Dialog”. He believes that in order to develop a plethora of skills in students as well as social and academic advancement; engagement of students in a co-operative dialog is an absolute must, let’s discuss why.
The dialog process is crucial, and should be viewed as a way to enhance a community, and as a way to build social capital, and eventually lead youngsters to act in a manner that influences every aspect of their lives positively as they grow. In Pedagogy of the Oppressed, Paulo postulates for an educational pedagogy, which would raise peoples' awareness regarding the current reality of social and economic conditions and encourage them to take an initiative necessary for their very own empowerment.
Only through dialogues can the dividing line between a teacher and their students; cease to exist allowing a reciprocal role to emerge, enabling a teacher and student to be on the same playing field, essentially allowing constructive discussions to take place.
This concept is further supported by Chris Spence, “These collaborative and cooperation based learning strategies promote three elements that are key to student learning, reflection, support systems, and preparing for the life ahead.”
Preparation for the life ahead is about learning to collaborate and work with each other. Through meaningful dialogues, students will naturally be attracted towards the matter being discussed. Moreover, it teaches the students the skill to actively construct the knowledge that has been learnt, in a manner that holds meaning to them.