Academia from the Inside: Pedagogies for Self and Other

This book explores how fourteen experts create deeper meaning in their profession and work with students through thinking about the self who teaches, the self who learns, and how these selves interact within the academy. It draws on embodied education, which combines ideas of Parker Palmer and Dr. Chinmay Pandya to humanize spaces in academia.

Format: Hardback
Length: 337 pages
Publication date: 23 November 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This captivating book invites readers to embark on a profound exploration of how fourteen distinguished experts in their respective fields cultivate deeper meaning in their profession and engage students through a myriad of thoughtful approaches, encompassing the self-awareness of the teacher, the learner, and the intricate interplay between these selves within the academic realm. The essays featured in this volume delve into the intricacies of academia through three compelling themes: Pursuing Authenticity, Creating a Creative Community, and Humanizing Education. Contributors reflect on their personal experiences within the academy and share innovative pedagogies they have developed to inspire and educate their students. At the heart of this book lies the theoretical framework of embodied education, which draws inspiration from the wisdom of educators Parker Palmer from the West and Dr. Chinmay Pandya from the East. Through the collaborative efforts of the contributors, embodied education emerges as a transformative approach that fosters self-understanding and empowers teachers and learners to humanize the spaces within academia.

In the realm of embodied education, teachers and learners embark on a transformative journey together, sharing experiences that foster self-awareness and lead to a profound understanding of one another. Through this collaborative exploration, they collectively identify ways to infuse humanity into the academic environment, creating a nurturing and inclusive space for learning and growth. Embodied education goes beyond mere theoretical concepts, as it emphasizes the importance of integrating the physical, emotional, and intellectual aspects of learning. By embracing this holistic approach, educators and learners cultivate a deeper sense of connection and empathy, enabling them to engage more meaningfully with the material and each other.

One of the key aspects of embodied education is the recognition of the teacher as a dynamic and evolving entity. Teachers are not merely imparting knowledge but also serving as role models, mentors, and guides. They embrace their own personal and professional growth, continually seeking new insights and approaches to enhance their teaching practice. Through embodied education, teachers are encouraged to tap into their own experiences and emotions, using them as a foundation for creating engaging and meaningful lessons that resonate with their students.

Learners, too, play an integral role in embodied education. They are encouraged to explore their own identities, values, and beliefs, and to engage in meaningful dialogue and reflection with their teachers and peers. Learners are invited to express themselves authentically, to take risks, and to explore new perspectives and ideas. By embracing their own unique experiences and perspectives, learners develop a deeper sense of self-awareness and self-esteem, which in turn empowers them to contribute meaningfully to the academic community.

Embodied education also emphasizes the importance of creating a creative community within the academic realm. Teachers and learners come together to share ideas, collaborate on projects, and engage in meaningful dialogue. This collaborative environment fosters a sense of belonging and fosters creativity, enabling individuals to tap into their full potential and contribute innovative ideas to the field.

In addition to its focus on the individual and the community, embodied education also recognizes the broader societal implications of education. It recognizes the role of education in shaping individuals and society as a whole, and seeks to create a more just and equitable educational system that promotes the well-being and development of all individuals.

Overall, embodied education is a transformative approach to teaching and learning that emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, self-expression, and collaboration. It empowers educators and learners to cultivate a deeper sense of connection and empathy, and to create a more inclusive and humanized academic environment. By embracing the principles of embodied education, educators and learners can inspire and empower students to reach their full potential and contribute positively to the world.

Weight: 614g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030838942
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021