Decolonizing Educational Relationships: Practical Approaches for Higher and Teacher Education

The legacy of colonialism and capitalism has led to social, cultural, economic, and environmental collapse. There is a resistance to taking action that challenges the status quo, maintaining a way of life that divides the world in unequal and inequitable ways, including in education. Calls to decolonize educational ideologies, structures, and practices have led to the authors presenting a novel way of thinking and a robust foundation for de/colonizing educational relationships in Higher and Teacher Education.

Format: Hardback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 06 December 2023
Publisher: Emerald Publishing Limited

Due to the enduring legacy of the colonial, capitalist project, we have arguably entered an era of social, cultural, economic, and environmental collapse. There is a heightened awareness of a range of global issues, including racism and xenophobia, economic and cultural protectionism, environmental degradation, and climate change. Yet, there appears to be a resistance to taking action that challenges the status quo, maintaining a way of life that continues to divide the world in unequal and inequitable ways, including in education.

The complicity of Westernized education in contributing to these issues has led calls to decolonize educational ideologies, structures, and practices. In response, the authors present a novel way of thinking and a robust foundation for de/colonizing educational relationships in Higher and Teacher Education, illustrated by examples of applications to practice. A hybrid style of writing weaves their own narratives into the text, drawing on their experiences in a range of educational settings.

The colonial, capitalist project has left a lasting impact on our world, shaping social, cultural, economic, and environmental systems in profound ways. One of the most significant consequences of this project is the perpetuation of inequality and injustice, both within and between countries. The legacy of colonialism has created a hierarchical structure that privileges certain groups of people over others, based on factors such as race, ethnicity, gender, and class. This has led to the marginalization and oppression of marginalized communities, as well as the exploitation of natural resources and the environment for the benefit of a few.

In addition to the economic and social consequences of colonialism, it has also had a significant impact on education. Westernized education systems have been imposed on many countries, often without consideration for local cultures and traditions. This has led to a lack of diversity and inclusivity in education, as well as a perpetuation of stereotypes and biases. For example, many educational systems prioritize Western literature, history, and philosophy, while neglecting the contributions of other cultures and regions. This has led to a lack of understanding and appreciation for different cultures, which can contribute to racism and xenophobia.

Furthermore, Westernized education systems have often been used to promote economic and cultural protectionism. This has led to the exclusion of certain groups of people from education, as well as the marginalization of those who do not conform to dominant cultural norms. For example, girls and women have often been denied access to education, as have people from marginalized communities, such as indigenous peoples and people of color. This has contributed to the perpetuation of gender and racial inequality, as well as the lack of representation and voice for these groups.

Another consequence of colonialism is environmental degradation. The extractive industries, which were often supported by colonial powers, have caused significant damage to the environment, including deforestation, pollution, and climate change. This has had a devastating impact on ecosystems and biodiversity, as well as on the lives of people who rely on the environment for their survival.

In response to these challenges, there has been a growing movement to decolonize education. This movement seeks to challenge the dominant Westernized educational ideologies and structures, and to promote a more inclusive and diverse approach to education. One of the key aspects of decolonizing education is the recognition of the importance of local cultures and traditions. Education should be designed to promote understanding and appreciation of different cultures, as well as to provide opportunities for people to learn about their own culture and heritage.

Another important aspect of decolonizing education is the promotion of diversity and inclusivity. Education should be accessible to all people, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status. This includes providing access to education for girls and women, as well as people from marginalized communities, such as indigenous peoples and people of color. Education should also be designed to promote gender equality and social justice, and to address the systemic inequalities that exist in society.

To decolonize education, there are several steps that can be taken. One of the most important is to challenge the dominant Westernized educational ideologies and structures. This can be done by promoting alternative educational ideologies and practices, such as decolonial education, which emphasizes the importance of indigenous knowledge and perspectives. It can also be done by promoting the use of indigenous languages and cultures in education, and by recognizing the contributions of marginalized communities to education.

Another important step is to promote diversity and inclusivity in education. This can be done by providing access to education for all people, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status. It can also be done by promoting the use of diverse teaching methods and materials, such as visual and performing arts, and by promoting the participation of marginalized communities in education.

Finally, it is important to address the environmental degradation caused by colonialism. This can be done by promoting sustainable practices in education, such as the use of renewable energy and the reduction of waste. It can also be done by promoting the conservation of natural resources and the protection of biodiversity.

In conclusion, the legacy of colonialism has had a profound impact on our world, shaping social, cultural, economic, and environmental systems in ways that perpetuate inequality and injustice. Decolonizing education is an important step towards addressing these challenges, and promoting a more inclusive and diverse approach to education. By challenging the dominant Westernized educational ideologies and structures, promoting diversity and inclusivity, and addressing the environmental degradation caused by colonialism, we can create a more just and sustainable world.

Weight: 536g
Dimension: 158 x 238 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800715301