Historical and Philosophical Foundations for Christian Education

Provides an overview of the history of education from the classical Greek and Roman periods to postcolonial times. While the focus is on educational developments within western civilization, prominent educators from the East (India and China) as well as Latin America (Brazil) will be studied. Students will be introduced to significant figures and some of their important ideas (and writings) that influenced the field of education. In addition, students will reflect upon selected biblical texts to establish a strong theological foundation for education. A major aim of this course is to develop a personal “pedagogical creed,” a Christian philosophy of education that will serve as a framework for teaching and a seedbed for ongoing reflective praxis.