Public Pedagogies:
an educational alternative?

Public Pedagogies Institute Masterclass 2019 – Peter Alsen M.A.

September 9 and 10, 6.00pm-8.00pm
Victoria University, City Flinders Campus

Registration $40, Register here

It is not a new insight that learning does not only take place in the classroom with an educator who teaches us subjects considered to be essential for our current or future life. Learning and teaching is complex, highly regulated and structured, whether in early childhood settings, in primary and secondary school or at tertiary levels. The purpose of this kind of learning is to involve individuals in the process of skills and knowledge development in order to gain independence and well-being. Everyday experiences in formal learning contexts continually demonstrate that education has become an important discussion in politics and economics, within society and for individuals.

Given this, where else do we learn – if not in the classroom, and what – if not something that is prescribed by curriculum authorities, and from whom – if not from a teacher who is accredited by the government? Indeed, why do we learn– if not for justifiable and socially expected reasons? To address these questions, you are invited to a masterclass which focusses on the concept of Public Pedagogies. Over two evenings, the masterclass will uncover more about Public Pedagogies and discuss educational alternatives to formal learning.

Day 1: Public Pedagogies: an educational alternative?

1. The emergence of an idea – comparative analyses
2. Three case studies deconstructed
3. The basic elements of Public Pedagogies education
4. What is Public Pedagogies about, part 1 – reviewing current directions of research

Day 2: Public Pedagogies –a response to discrimination and injustice?

1. What is Public Pedagogies about, part 2 – socio-political inquiries
2. Public Pedagogies in the intersection of education and the promotion of human rights
3. Emancipatory education – the impact on individuals and society
4. The functioning citizen vs the emancipated individual

Peter Alsen M.A.
Peter Alsen is a PhD candidate and research assistant at the School of Education and the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Deakin University. A former early childhood educator, his doctoral research focuses on the intersection of politics, law and education, entitled “Concepts of Early Childhood Education and Care in Australia and Germany.” Peter holds a Masters’ degree in political science, law and psychology with a published monograph in the field of critical legal studies “Human Rights between Universalism and Particularism” (in German).

One of Peter’s major research interests is human rights and their transfer and implementation into everyday life such as social inclusion, equality, individual freedom and political participation. Other areas of concentration are critical legal studies, human social environments, social-pedagogical approaches, various forms of learning and the concept of public pedagogy and its effects on individuals and society. Peter aims to critically re-examine current societal and political environments and to contribute new ideas and concepts for change.