Encountering Education through Existential Challenges and Community: Re-connection and Renewal for an Ecologically based Future

This book rethinks education in light of the climate crisis, the purpose of education in a post-pandemic world, and the mental health of children, teachers, and youth. It offers a novel approach through narrative-based inquiry and auto-ethnographic study, synthesizing ideas from Kumar and Hannah Arendt. It provides a critique of a predominantly Western-orientated global education movement and will appeal to scholars, researchers, and post-graduate students in education theory and the philosophy of education, as well as indigenous and sustainability education.

Format: Hardback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 31 August 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Rewritten text:
Drawing inspiration from the groundbreaking 2013 work "Soil, Soul, and Society" by Indian British activist Satish Kumar, this book offers a fresh perspective on education, aligning it with the urgent concerns of the current climate crisis, the role of education in a post-pandemic world, and the well-being of children, teachers, and youth across societies. Recognizing the realities of a world grappling with the aftermath of COVID-19, the author imagines a future for education that harnesses real-world solutions to the existential, ecological, and societal challenges that may otherwise be confined to an idealistic realm. Through a unique blend of narrative-based inquiry and auto-ethnographic study, the book offers a comprehensive synthesis of ideas from both Kumar and political philosopher Hannah Arendt, which are seldom intertwined in discussions on sustainability education. Ultimately, this interdisciplinary work serves as a critical critique of the predominantly Western-oriented, global education movement, appealing to scholars, researchers, and post-graduate students engaged in education theory and the philosophy of education, as well as those interested in indigenous and sustainability education more broadly.

Introduction:
In the face of the unprecedented challenges posed by the climate crisis, the post-pandemic world, and the mental health concerns of children, teachers, and youth across societies, education has emerged as a critical domain for reimagining and reforming. This book seeks to contribute to this ongoing discourse by exploring the intersection of education, sustainability, and social justice.

Climate Crisis:
The climate crisis is a pressing global issue that demands immediate attention and action. The book recognizes the need for education to play a pivotal role in addressing this crisis by equipping individuals with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to mitigate the impacts of climate change and promote sustainable practices. It advocates for a curriculum that integrates environmental science, climate justice, and sustainable development, empowering students to become agents of change in their communities.

Post-Pandemic World:
The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted education systems worldwide, highlighting the importance of resilience, adaptability, and innovation. The book explores the role of education in rebuilding and revitalizing societies after the pandemic, emphasizing the need for inclusive, equitable, and accessible education for all. It advocates for a flexible and hybrid learning approach that accommodates diverse learning styles and needs, ensuring that no student is left behind.

Mental Health of Children, Teachers, and Youth:
The mental health of children, teachers, and youth is a critical concern that requires urgent attention. The book recognizes the impact of stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues on academic performance, social relationships, and overall well-being. It advocates for a comprehensive approach to mental health support that includes counseling, mindfulness practices, and access to mental health resources.

Interdisciplinary Approach:
The book adopts an interdisciplinary approach, drawing insights from various fields such as education, sustainability, environmental science, and social justice. It combines narrative-based inquiry, auto-ethnographic study, and critical analysis to provide a holistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing education today.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book offers a novel perspective on education, one that is aligned with the urgent needs of our time. By rethinking education in the context of the climate crisis, the post-pandemic world, and the mental health of children, teachers, and youth, it seeks to empower individuals with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to create a more sustainable and just world. Through an interdisciplinary approach, it provides a comprehensive synthesis of ideas from diverse fields, offering a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and educators alike.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032517315