Identity and Transformation: The Professor in the Brazilian University - Marisa Todescan Dias da Silva Baptista

Identity and Transformation: The Professor in the Brazilian University

In her book "Identity and Transformation: The Professor in the Brazilian University," Marisa Todescan Dias da Silva Baptista offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the identity and role of professors in Brazilian universities. Drawing on extensive research and interviews with professors from various disciplines and institutions, Baptista presents a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by these educators in shaping the future of higher education in Brazil.

Navigating Identity and Professionalism

Baptista begins by examining the complex interplay between the personal and professional identities of professors. She argues that professors' identities are not static but rather dynamic and evolving, influenced by their interactions with students, colleagues, and the broader social and political context. Baptista highlights the importance of professors' self-awareness and reflexivity in navigating these complex identity dynamics and maintaining a balance between their personal values and professional responsibilities.

The Challenges of the Brazilian University System

Baptista then turns her attention to the specific challenges faced by professors in the Brazilian university system. She discusses the impact of government policies, funding constraints, and institutional hierarchies on professors' ability to teach, research, and engage in community outreach. Baptista also explores the challenges of balancing teaching and research responsibilities, as well as the pressures to publish in high-impact journals and secure research funding.

The Role of Professors in Social Transformation

Despite these challenges, Baptista argues that professors play a vital role in promoting social transformation through their teaching, research, and engagement with the community. She highlights the importance of professors' commitment to social justice, critical thinking, and the development of students' civic engagement skills. Baptista also discusses the role of professors in promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and fostering a culture of innovation and creativity within the university.

Conclusion: A Call for Transformation

In conclusion, Baptista calls for a transformation of the Brazilian university system to better support professors and enable them to fulfill their potential as agents of social change. She emphasizes the need for institutional policies that promote academic freedom, encourage interdisciplinary collaboration, and provide adequate resources for teaching and research. Baptista also highlights the importance of recognizing and valuing the diverse contributions of professors, including their teaching, research, and community engagement.

"Identity and Transformation: The Professor in the Brazilian University" is a thought-provoking and insightful book that offers a valuable contribution to the understanding of the role and identity of professors in higher education. Baptista's work is essential reading for anyone interested in the future of higher education in Brazil and beyond.

Key Features:

• Comprehensive analysis of the identity and role of professors in Brazilian universities
• Draws on extensive research and interviews with professors from various disciplines and institutions
• Explores the challenges and opportunities faced by professors in the Brazilian university system
• Discusses the importance of professors' commitment to social justice, critical thinking, and civic engagement
• Calls for a transformation of the Brazilian university system to better support professors and enable them to fulfill their potential as agents of social change

Why You Should Read This Book:

• Gain a deeper understanding of the complex identity dynamics of professors in higher education
• Learn about the challenges and opportunities faced by professors in the Brazilian university system
• Explore the role of professors in promoting social transformation through teaching, research, and community engagement
• Be inspired by the call for a transformation of the Brazilian university system to better support professors and enable them to fulfill their potential as agents of social change