What does "critical pedagogy" encourage students to do?

Critical pedagogy is an educational approach that seeks to empower students to critically analyze and challenge the societal structures and inequalities that exist within their environment. It emphasizes the importance of questioning dominant narratives and advocating for social justice. In this framework, students are encouraged to engage in discussions that scrutinize issues of power, privilege, and oppression, thereby fostering a more equitable and inclusive society.

This approach contrasts with the notion of accepting educational practices without question, focusing solely on memorization, or restricting discussions to theoretical perspectives without real-world applicability. Instead, critical pedagogy seeks to inspire students to think critically and become active participants in their own learning and in the world around them. By questioning existing inequalities and advocating for change, students develop a deeper understanding of their roles as citizens and learners, which is central to the philosophy of critical pedagogy.