CFP: Second International Seminar on Philosophy of Education

Azim Premji University, Bangalore announces its Second International Seminar
on Philosophy of Education to be organized on May 12 – May 14, 2014 in
Bangalore. The First International Seminar on Philosophy of Education in
January 2013 witnessed the participation of philosophers and scholars of
education from across India, Europe, and North America and presentations on
a range of philosophical issues in education. The Second International
Seminar on Philosophy of Education is proposed to deliberate on the
following themes.

Themes of the Seminar

•       Social Justice and Education

Social justice has always been an important concern in philosophy of
education. In India cultural, ethnic and religious diversity coupled with
socio-economic disparities makes it especially relevant at present times
when privatisation of education is on an ascending curve. This theme seeks
to explore the questions pertaining to the social role of education and
equality.

•       Indian Philosophical Thoughts/ Thinkers and Education

This theme seeks to establish dialogues between Indian philosophical
traditions and modern concerns of philosophy of education. Such an
engagement promises to enrich philosophy of education through the infusion
of fresh philosophical perspectives. The dialogue could also pertain to
Indian thinkers/philosophers (both ancient and modern) and their take on
education. Further, the elements of Philosophy of Education could be
explored in the traditions of Indian Philosophy.

•       Nature of Educational Studies : Curricular and Pedagogic Issues

Many universities in India now are offering Master of Arts in Education or
Master of Arts in Educational Studies. These programmes are different from
traditional Master of Education (M.Ed.) programmes. The nature and scope of
curricula for MA in Education or MA in Educational Studies programmes give
rise to many questions that need philosophical considerations For instance,
the characterisation of educational studies as a field of liberal study
requires resolution before a curriculum with reasonably clear principles of
unity can be formulated. This theme is an invitation to explore these and
similar questions.

•       Policy Issues in Education- Measurement and Assessment,
Accountability, Quality in Education

Educational policies in recent times have shown an unprecedented tilt
towards nurturing certain kinds of regimes with a claim to ensure better
provision and outcomes of education. Some examples are teacher
accountability, quality as placement opportunities in higher education and
securing admission in college education for school education. Moreover, we
are witnessing a refinement of the social purposes of education under the
pressure of a globalised economy. Exploration of aims of education in the
emerging reform and policy initiatives is itself an important subtheme under
the overall theme of policy issues. It is worthwhile to examine the
interplay of these issues in education. It is important to examine these
concepts from the perspective of what implications they will have on
education.

We invite papers on each of the above mentioned themes. Contributions are
expected to explore the philosophical significance of the questions emerging
within the scope of each theme. However, good quality philosophical papers
not falling under any of the above mentioned themes are also welcome. Papers
are invited from philosophers of education, philosophers, educationists,
practitioners in education and students of education. Authors  are advised
to limit their contributions to 4500-6000 words. Papers should be prepared
for blind review, and sent along with a 300-words abstract on or before
January 1, 2014.The papers may be sent either through email to [email protected].