• Magno Cathryn Susan

• Magno Cathryn Susan

This course offers an introduction to foundational and critical theories of education. The meaning of education and the purpose of schooling will be discussed and applied to current educational problems and questions. A focus will be placed on power relations in the larger society and how and why they influence the structure and function of schooling, both historically and in the current era. Curriculum, instruction and context will be considered. Students will be encouraged to apply theoretical concepts to the educational issues we face today in Switzerland and beyond. The course will be taught in a quasi-lecture format, with some student interaction and participation. Pedagogical tools will include readings, podcasts, videos and relevant websites.

The course will be taught in English.

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

- identify major figures in educational theory,

- explain overarching concepts embedded in several theoretical approaches, and

- defend their position in support of a particular theory.

Sample literature:

• Bourdieu, P. (1986). The forms of capital. New York: Greenwood Press.
• Friere, P. (1970). Pedagogy of the oppressed. New York: Continuum Press.
• hooks, b. (1994). Teaching to transgress. New York: Routledge
• Noddings, N. (2003). Happiness and education. Cambridge and New York: Cambridge University Press.