EDUC 323: Critical Pedagogy is an educational studies course at Trinity College with a community learning component. The course focuses on how to transform traditional and exclusionary classroom settings to more culturally relevant and inclusive spaces. The course educates students on elements of critical pedagogy whilst allowing them to observe elements of it in neighborhood schools.
Several research topics were provided for students to choose from. Through observing at local schools and doing independent research, students were able to further their understanding of different factors surrounding schooling. We were able to see some elements of critical pedagogy at work, learn about critical efforts and gain perspective from staff and students, and offer recommendations based on our review of prior research/literature. Some of the topics we explored this semester include:
- Bilingual Family Engagement
- Black and Brown Young Male Students’ Perspectives
- Innovative Design of (Physical) Space in Schools
- Career Pathways in Schools
- Detracking
Olivia and Mia talking with Principal Brodnitzki about the physical design of schools after class.
Joe, Maria, Sonia, and Angelica meet with Marlyn Davila-Pinard, a bilingual Hartford-native who has experience working with/supporting bilingual students and families to enhance students’ level of academic success and access; and Dr. Granville Wrensford, the director of a program which works closely with bilingual students and families in and around Hartford.
EDUC323 students talking with Principal Brodnitzki at Impact Academy
EDUC323 Student Briyani visited CREC AAE to observe and speak with teacher Taylor Canterbury who currently teaches a US History course, as well as the African-American/Black & Puerto Rican/Latinx Studies course.
Professor Jones and Briyani visited CREC Academy of Aerospace and Engineering together to observe student presentations in the African-American/Black & Puerto Rican/Latinx Studies course taught by Taylor Canterbury.