Paulo Freire and Transformative Education

Abstract

This collection of papers has been inspired by the work of Paulo Freire and his tireless drive for a transformative and humanising education. Freire believed in the possibility of change and rejected the neo liberal discourse that presents poverty as inevitable, therefore rendering ‘opportunities for change’ invisible. Freire believed that it is a prerogative of ‘being’ in the world to transform it, rather than adapt to an unethical order of things. Freire states that it is our responsibility (and privilege ) to intervene in reality, and as ‘progressive educators, we must be committed to those responsibilities.’
This proposed volume brings together broad themes addressing those responsibilities, exploring segregated communities, mobility, border crossing, and associated pedagogies, the emphasis being on impact and transformation. Moreover, in Freire’s words, the collection aims to create a small but significant context, where a group of educators have come together to ‘question the fatalistic perceptions of the circumstances in which they find themselves’ , and share their ideas for positive change.
The volume will address a range of global and local themes including, but not limited to research, case studies and education. It will include pedagogical approaches to globalisation, social mobility, empowerment and conscientization, ability/disability and valuing diversity within communities. It will also share the transformative power of ‘being’ through popular education and the solidarity economy. Relevance to pedagogical practice and its impact an underpinning theme.
The included papers promote a dialogue around potential contribution and impact on the wider community. Contributions emphasize transformation and empowerment through research and pedagogical practice.