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: Paperback / softback
Length: 337 pages
Publication date: 24 November 2022
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, shedding light on three central themes: Pursuing Authenticity, Creating a Creative Community, and Humanizing Education. Contributors reflect on their personal experiences within the academy and share innovative pedagogies designed 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 tangible experiences and practical applications. By integrating the body, mind, and spirit, educators and learners create a holistic learning experience that resonates with students on a deeper level.

One of the key aspects of embodied education is the recognition of the teacher as a learner. Teachers are encouraged to embrace a lifelong learning mindset, constantly seeking new insights and perspectives to enhance their teaching practices. They recognize that their students are also learners, and they strive to create an environment that fosters curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. Through embodied education, teachers become more attuned to the individual needs of their students, allowing them to tailor their teaching strategies to meet the unique requirements of each learner.

In addition to fostering self-awareness and creating a humanized academic environment, embodied education also promotes the development of a creative community. The classroom becomes a space where students and teachers can collaborate, share ideas, and explore new possibilities. Teachers encourage students to take risks, experiment with new approaches, and express themselves in unique and innovative ways. By promoting a culture of creativity, embodied education helps students develop the skills they need to succeed in today's rapidly changing world.

Furthermore, embodied education emphasizes the importance of humanizing education. It recognizes that education is not just about imparting knowledge but also about nurturing the whole person. Teachers strive to create a learning environment that values empathy, compassion, and social responsibility. They encourage students to think critically about social issues, engage in community service, and develop a sense of empathy for others. By humanizing education, embodied education prepares students to become responsible and engaged citizens who can make a positive impact on their communities and the world.

In conclusion, this book offers a rich and insightful exploration of embodied education, a transformative approach that empowers teachers and learners to cultivate deeper meaning in their profession and engage students through thoughtful and innovative approaches. Embodied education goes beyond mere theory, emphasizing the importance of tangible experiences, self-awareness, and the cultivation of a creative community. By humanizing education, embodied education prepares students to become responsible and engaged citizens who can make a positive impact on their communities and the world.

Weight: 462g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030838973
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021