Proceedings of the 7th International Conference on Advanced Research in Education
Year: 2024
DOI:
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Fostering Critical Dialogue: Establishing Brave Spaces for Transformative Discourse Within South African Classrooms
Dr. Shani Steyn
ABSTRACT:
This research paper explores the crucial role that educators within the dynamic context of South African education, play in establishing safe spaces for difficult and sensitive, yet transformative conversations within the framework of critical pedagogy. Educators, by fostering environments where they together with their students can engage in open, honest, and critical discussions, play a pivotal role in promoting critical consciousness, empathy, and social justice awareness. This paper emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and addressing culturally sensitive topics within educational settings by drawing on the principles of critical pedagogy. Educators are encouraged not only to create an inclusive classroom environment, but also intentionally allow alternative narratives to be heard, so that students feel empowered to voice their opinions, ask challenging questions, and critically analyse societal issues. This paper further highlights practical and contextually relevant strategies and approaches that educators can implement to facilitate the establishing of these safe spaces for complex conversations. By doing this, educators contribute to the development if critical thinking skills, social awareness, and a sense of agency amongst their students. This ultimately advances a more equitable and transformative educational experience in South Africa, by highlighting the continuous effort to rebalance power dynamics in favour of learners and progressive education.
keywords: educators, equitable, pedagogy, progressive, strategies