Best Practice

Critical pedagogy: Empowering minds, transforming classrooms

Pedagogy Pedagogy research
Critical pedagogy promotes active participation and dialogue, allowing students to become co-creators of knowledge as they critically examine society. However, the technique has its critics. Andrew Jones looks at the pros and cons
Purpose of education? Critical pedagogy is rooted in the belief that education should not just impart knowledge but also foster critical thinking and encourage social change - Adobe Stock

During my training as a citizenship teacher, I was introduced to critical pedagogy, an educational approach that urges students to critically examine society, question dominant narratives, and recognise the power structures shaping their lives.

It is rooted in the belief that education should not just impart knowledge but also foster critical thinking and encourage social change. This aligns well with the aims of citizenship education, which seeks to embed democratic engagement and empower young people as agents of change (McCowen, 2006).

However, as a teacher trainer responsible for organising and delivering training for trainee and early career teachers, I seldom get to mention critical pedagogy in my training sessions.

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