The School and Pedagogical Discourse: A Critical Perspective

Introduction

In her book, "The School and Pedagogical Discourse," Maria Oly Pey offers a critical analysis of the relationship between school and pedagogical discourse. She argues that the school is a site of power and control, where the dominant discourse is used to shape the identities and subjectivities of students. Pey draws on a variety of theoretical perspectives, including critical theory, post-structuralism, and feminism, to develop a nuanced understanding of the ways in which power operates in schools.

The School as a Site of Power

Pey argues that the school is a site of power where the dominant discourse is used to shape the identities and subjectivities of students. She draws on the work of Michel Foucault to develop a concept of power that is not simply repressive, but also productive. Power, according to Foucault, is not something that is possessed by individuals or institutions, but rather something that is produced and circulated through discourse. In the school, the dominant discourse is produced by the teachers and administrators, and it is used to shape the way that students think about themselves and the world around them.

The Pedagogical Discourse

The pedagogical discourse is the language that is used in schools to teach students. Pey argues that the pedagogical discourse is not neutral, but rather that it is a powerful tool that can be used to shape the identities and subjectivities of students. The pedagogical discourse is often used to transmit the dominant ideology, and it can also be used to marginalize and exclude students who do not conform to the dominant norms.

The Student as a Subject of Power

Pey argues that the student is not simply a passive recipient of the pedagogical discourse, but rather that they are an active subject who can resist and challenge the dominant discourse. Students can resist the dominant discourse by questioning the assumptions that it makes, by challenging the authority of the teachers and administrators, and by creating their own counter-discourses.

The Possibilities for Transformation

Pey concludes her book by arguing that the school can be a site of transformation, where students can develop critical consciousness and challenge the dominant discourse. She argues that teachers can play a key role in this process by creating a classroom environment that is open to dialogue and debate, and by encouraging students to think critically about the world around them.

Conclusion

"The School and Pedagogical Discourse" is a powerful and insightful book that offers a critical analysis of the relationship between school and pedagogical discourse. Pey's work is essential reading for anyone who is interested in understanding the ways in which power operates in schools, and for anyone who is committed to creating a more just and equitable educational system.

Why You Should Read This Book

If you are interested in any of the following topics, then you should read "The School and Pedagogical Discourse":

• The relationship between school and society
• The role of power in education
• The construction of identity and subjectivity in schools
• The possibilities for resistance and transformation in education

This book is a must-read for anyone who is interested in understanding the complex and ever-changing world of education. Pey's work is essential reading for anyone who is committed to creating a more just and equitable educational system.