Geography, School and Knowledge Construction: A Critical Approach

Introduction

In her book "Geography, School and Knowledge Construction: A Critical Approach", Lana de Souza Cavalcanti offers a comprehensive and thought-provoking analysis of the role of geography in schools and the ways in which geographical knowledge is constructed and disseminated. Drawing on a wealth of research and theoretical frameworks, Cavalcanti argues that geography education has the potential to be a powerful tool for social transformation, but that it is often limited by traditional approaches that emphasize rote learning and the memorization of facts.

Geography and the Construction of Knowledge

Cavalcanti begins by exploring the complex relationship between geography and the construction of knowledge. She argues that geography is not simply a neutral body of information, but rather a social and cultural construct that is shaped by the values and beliefs of the society in which it is produced. As such, geography education has the potential to play a significant role in shaping students' understanding of the world and their place in it.

The Role of Geography in Schools

Cavalcanti then examines the role of geography in schools, arguing that it is often marginalized and treated as a less important subject compared to other disciplines such as mathematics and science. She argues that this marginalization is due in part to the traditional view of geography as a descriptive discipline that is concerned with memorizing facts and figures. However, Cavalcanti argues that geography has the potential to be much more than this, and that it can be used to help students develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving skills, and a sense of global citizenship.

Critical Approaches to Geography Education

In the final part of the book, Cavalcanti explores critical approaches to geography education, which challenge traditional approaches and seek to empower students to critically examine the world around them. She discusses a range of critical pedagogical approaches, such as problem-posing education, participatory action research, and critical cartography, and argues that these approaches can help students to develop a more critical understanding of the world and their place in it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "Geography, School and Knowledge Construction: A Critical Approach" is a valuable resource for anyone interested in geography education and the role of geography in shaping our understanding of the world. Cavalcanti's critical approach provides a fresh perspective on geography education and offers a range of practical strategies for teachers to use in their classrooms. This book is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the power of geography and its potential to transform society.

Key Features

• Comprehensive and thought-provoking analysis of the role of geography in schools and the ways in which geographical knowledge is constructed and disseminated.
• Draws on a wealth of research and theoretical frameworks to support its arguments.
• Argues that geography education has the potential to be a powerful tool for social transformation, but that it is often limited by traditional approaches that emphasize rote learning and the memorization of facts.
• Explores critical approaches to geography education that challenge traditional approaches and seek to empower students to critically examine the world around them.
• Offers a range of practical strategies for teachers to use in their classrooms.

Why You Should Buy This Book

If you are interested in geography education and the role of geography in shaping our understanding of the world, then this book is a must-read. Cavalcanti's critical approach provides a fresh perspective on geography education and offers a range of practical strategies for teachers to use in their classrooms. This book is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the power of geography and its potential to transform society.