Diversity and Inclusion
The Theoretical Realm
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Giaan Khand in Japji Sahib |
The description of Giaan Khand emphasizes the theoretical ability of categorization, differentiation and definition whether dealing with physical or mythical objects. The various categories are indicated by the word "many" in describing various entities.
While theoretical in Western philosophy is often correlated with reason and conscious knowledge, the following verse allows for intuition, subconscious and experiential knowledge as further sources as indicated by references made to mythical personages, cultural phenomenon and categorization of different entities alluded to under the word "many" in the following verse: "Let us speak of the activity in the Realm of Knowledge Many (types of) winds, waters and fires; many Krishnas and Shivas Many Brahmas fashioning forms in various colours and shapes Many karmic lands, many mythical mountains, many Dhruvas giving lessons (through their devotion) Many Indras; many moons and suns; many constellations and countries Many Siddha yogis, Buddhas, ascetics; many goddesses in various forms Many gods, demons, sages; many oceans of jewels Many ways of procreation, many languages, many ruling dynasties Many self-aware, many altruists. Oh Nanak there is no end" (Japji Sahib 35) |
Use in Education |
While empirical philosophy focuses on data and evidence gathered by the five senses, theoretical studies use rational and suprarational faculties to critically examine the assumptions made about social phenomena. The method often involves qualitative research or a mixed methods study often looking to explore broad concepts that influence different areas of education.
Theoretical studies provide a deeper analysis than empirical studies, often considering complex and subtle relationships. While empirical study will look to design experiments to test a certain variable, the theoretical approach would look at the complex interconnection of processes, interactions and variables involved. An example of this complexity would be contained in Critical Discourse Analysis, which investigates ways that social power is reproduced and resisted in textual and verbal discourses. Such an analysis would answer who is empowered and who is dis-empowered in discourses and the how is access to power limited to privileged elites and blocked from marginalized groups. Many theories can be brought into analysis of education, particularly since the field is interdisciplinary in nature, borrowing from and influenced by disciplines such as sociology, psychology, history, philosophy and business. Educational theories can focus on many topics from pedagogy, learning, curriculum, policy, organization to leadership. The following are influential theoretical philosophies adopted within education:
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Equity and Inclusion |
A theoretical analysis of the barriers to equity and inclusion would allow for qualitative and mixed methods studies to dig deeper into issues from a broad variety of perspectives. One of the strengths of this approach is that complex relationships and interconnections can be explored, including intersectionality of multiple identities such as gender, sexual orientation, race, culture and religion.
Theory can uncover and illuminate different aspects of phenomenon by both challenging and extending the boundaries of existing knowledge. The effects of bias, stereotyping, racialization, colonialism, among many other topics related to equity and inclusion can be explored. While theoretical knowledge may lead to insights, it may in some cases work merely toward deconstruction of dominant narratives without presenting an alternative position. Some theorists would argue, for instance, that bias is always present and that objectivity as an ideal is difficult, if not impossible to attain. Therefore, they propose uncovering and declaring your bias in research. Other theorists, particularly those concerned with developing leadership, wish to overcome bias in order to develop character traits suited for work with students from diverse cultural, racial and economic backgrounds. |