ToLCA

A capabilities approach to education can be characterised by its Advocates for such an approach argue for theories of learning and associated pedagogies that support these principles. In the readings below various scholars discuss the specific qualities of a capabilities approach. Key features of such an approach include:
 * Theories of Learning for a Capabilities Approach**
 * advocacy for democratisation of the learning space
 * attention to the wellbeing and happiness of the child
 * the development of skills and ways of being which support the individual in their freedom to make choices
 * the exercise of personal, social and political aspirations.
 * the utilisiation of an experience and inquiry based approach to learning. John Dewey is frequently seen as a significant figure, cited by many as inspiring and enhancing a democratisation of the learning space.
 * the use of critical pedagogy is seen by many as an important theory or set of theories that suport the enactment of a capabilities approach. Scholars such as Friere, Kincheloe and Apparadurai are significant figures that motivate a critical disposition within teachers and students as they engage in democratic learning processes.
 * attention to the complexity of the teaching and learning process has been investigated through the lens of complexity theory. Biesta, Davis and Sumara among others have made important contributions to this discussion.
 * attention to poststructural theory addresses concerns about inequality of schooling. Scholars such as Peters, Biesta, Janks, Cormack have argued for the deployment of theorists such as Foucault, Derrida, Deleuze and Guatturi and Butler in rethinking the relationship of individuals to knowledge and power. A theory of discourse and power is important to this work and seeks to engage teachers and learners in questions of productive and dominant power, diversity, access and redesign of social futures.

In addition to the readings listed below, we also provide a ppt. reporting on the initial findings of a two year project addressing the aims of a capabilities approach when implementing the new Australian Curriculum.

[|Teaching and Learning with the Capabilities.pptx] [|Applebaum B Critical race theory.pdf] [|Davis and Sumara complexity as a theory of education.pdf] [|Biesta_2007.pdf] [|Kellner D Toward a Critical Theory of Education.pdf] [|LeBmann Capability and learning to choose.pdf] [|Osberg Biesta Cilliers complexity and pedagogy.x.pdf] [|Luke A What counts as knowledge in educational settings.pdf]