Course content

The course gives a broad introduction to the philosophy of education and the history of ideas. Goals and content of upbringing will be discussed, and the changes in ideas on development as growth and teaching examined. The course will discuss different perspectives on and ideas about upbringing, socialization, education, dialogue and teaching, and how ideas about power, authority, freedom and rationality affect pedagogical thinking and practice.

The aim of the course is to give students a closer understanding of the ongoing debate about questions of schooling and upbringing, and for students to see pedagogical questions in the light of a philosophical perspective. The course will also shed light on central approaches to problems in education studies, for instance on the relationship between individuals and society, and the relationship between schools and society, of power, authority, freedom and rationality.

The course is obligatory in order to achieve full specialization in education studies. The course is one of five courses in the One-Year Programme in Education.

Learning outcome

The aim of the study is to give students a critical understanding of key educational questions from a pedagogical and philosophical perspective.

Learning methods and activities

Up to 4 hours of lectures per week, and up to 2 hours of seminar per week.

Course materials

The required course reading material is approximately 1000 pages.

Credit reductions