Assignment 1b

Paulo Freire (1921-1997) was born and raised in Brazil during the Great Depression era. He saw first-hand the need for social awareness and improvement, as well as just education for all. He experienced the poverty and hunger of this tragic time. He was imprisoned and exiled. He saw and taught in many parts of the world. He spoke with first-hand knowledge and experience when he presented his theories. He lived them. And, what further credential would make him more qualified?

He promoted the teaching method of dialogue between teacher and student, where each would respectfully learn from the other. This would serve as the basic role of classroom participation. This is in strong contrast to the teacher/student dichotomy that so often exists. He attacked the "banking" system concept of education where the student was viewed as an empty "account" to be filled by the teacher.

He also presented the idea of "Critical Conscientiousness" which involves recognizing the connection between the individual's problems and experiences and the social contexts in which they're imbedded. This is the first step in power and "know-how" to take action against oppression while stressing the importance of liberating education. Again, dialogue and concern for the oppressed, with people working together to enhance the community, through deepening understanding, would make a major difference in the world. This, in turn, leads us to act in ways that make for justice and human flourishing. This is understood to be able to transform reality.

www. wikipedia. org/paulo_Freire

www.infed.org/thinkers/et-freir.htm