P4wC as an Effective Educational Pedagogy for BLM and COVID-19 discussions in K-12 Education
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Date
2021
Authors
Mullen, Nicole
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
Recent major events like the BLM and COVID-19 catalyze a need for teaching methods that foster critical thinking, curiosity, and nuanced thinking in K-12 classrooms. Philosophy for and with Children (P4wC) emerges as an incredible educational tool to address this need. Contrary to popular belief, P4wC, is not about teaching children the history of philosophy. Interviews conducted with over 20 educators and P4wC instructors from around the world, current scholarship on PwC, and Zoom demonstrations of P4C teaching methods demonstrate P4wC is an effective and underutilized educational pedagogy. P4wC develops the tendency children already have to be inquisitive and curious about the world by interrupting traditional power dynamics between student and teacher. P4wC is defined by the creation of a community of inquiry that is intellectually safe, nurtures wonder, and allows for the discussion of sensitive topics. Instead of teaching children to be afraid or run away from difficult, ambiguous questions, engaging students at a young age in philosophical discussion and questioning teaches them to think critically throughout their lives. These critical thinking skills and willingness to thoughtfully consider complex ethical issues are even more pertinent in a world where the average citizen is increasingly forced to grapple with ethical issues.
Description
1 page.
Keywords
K-12 Education, Philosophy, COVID-19, BLM