Mid Term: Critical Pedagogy

Name: Raihanah Najiyah

Student ID: 2520230014

Critical pedagogy is an educational approach that encourages students to think critically, ask questions, and understand social issues around them. This concept is closely related to Paulo Freire, who believed that education should help people become more aware of their social conditions and gain freedom through learning (Freire, 1970). Unlike traditional education, which often focuses only on memorization, critical pedagogy encourages active participation and discussion between teachers and students.

In many traditional classrooms, teachers are viewed as the main source of knowledge while students only listen and follow instructions. Freire called this the “banking model” of education because students are treated as empty containers to be filled with information (Freire, 1970). Critical pedagogy rejects this model because it limits creativity and critical thinking. Instead, students are encouraged to express their ideas, share experiences, and connect lessons to real-life situations.

The importance of critical pedagogy can be seen in how it helps students become more aware of social problems such as inequality, discrimination, poverty, and injustice. Education should not only prepare students for exams or jobs, but also help them understand society and become responsible individuals. According to Henry Giroux, schools should teach students how to think critically and participate actively in democratic society (Giroux, 1988).

We need to learn about critical pedagogy because education is never completely neutral. Every educational system reflects certain values and beliefs. Sometimes schools unintentionally teach students to obey authority without questioning it. Through critical pedagogy, students learn how to analyze information carefully, recognize unfair systems, and think independently. This is especially important in today’s world where students are surrounded by information from social media and the internet.

Critical pedagogy is also important for future teachers. Teachers have a strong influence on students’ ways of thinking and learning. A teacher who applies critical pedagogy creates a classroom environment where students feel comfortable speaking, discussing, and asking questions. This approach helps students become more confident and active in the learning process. Peter McLaren explains that education should empower students and encourage social awareness (McLaren, 2003).

The impact of critical pedagogy can be very positive. Students who are taught using this approach often develop better communication skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. They become more aware of issues happening in society and are more willing to participate in finding solutions. However, applying critical pedagogy is not always easy because many schools still use teacher-centered methods and focus heavily on examinations. In some classrooms, students may also feel afraid to express opinions because they are used to passive learning.

Despite these challenges, critical pedagogy remains highly relevant in modern education. Students today need not only academic knowledge but also critical thinking skills to face social and global challenges. Through critical pedagogy, education becomes more meaningful, interactive, and connected to real life. It helps students become independent thinkers who are able to understand problems and contribute positively to society.

In conclusion, critical pedagogy is an important educational approach that emphasizes critical thinking, participation, dialogue, and social awareness. It encourages students not only to receive knowledge but also to question and understand the world around them. Although applying this approach can sometimes be challenging, its positive impact on students makes it very valuable. Therefore, critical pedagogy continues to play an important role in improving education and preparing students for the future.