Résumés
Abstract
This article argues that the model of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) in use at the Workers’ College in South Africa may be seen as a form of “radical pedagogy.” Drawing on documentary sources, focus group interviews with staff, and observations, it describes an educational philosophy which aims to build the competencies of activists in labour and community organizations, facilitate their self-affirmation and dignity, and provide an access route to post-school education. It documents and attempts to theorize how this philosophy is enacted in classroom pedagogy, and explores some of the tensions and contradictions encountered. It concludes by acknowledging the unique contribution of these educational practices to an understanding of what RPL as radical pedagogy might look like.
Résumé
Cet article soutient que le modèle de reconnaissance des acquis (RPL) utilisé au Workers’ College en Afrique du Sud peut être considéré comme une forme de « pédagogie radicale ». Le texte décrit une philosophie éducative en s’inspirant de sources documentaires, de groupes de discussion avec des employés et des observations. Cette vision vise à développer les compétences des partisans d’organisations ouvrières et communautaires, à favoriser leur affirmation de soi et leur dignité, ainsi qu’à offrir une voie d’accès à une éducation postscolaire. L’article documente et tente d’élaborer une théorie sur la manière dont cette philosophie est appliquée en pédagogie et explore certaines des tensions et contradictions rencontrées. Il termine en reconnaissant la contribution unique de ces pratiques éducatives à l’élaboration d’une meilleure compréhension de la façon par laquelle le RPL peut présenter comme une pédagogie radicale.
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Parties annexes
Biographical note
MPHUTLANE WA BOFELO is a poet and cultural worker. He is currently a facilitator at Workers’ College in Durban.
ANITHA SHAH, a former library and information worker, is a part-time Resource Coordinator at the Workers’ College, Durban.
KESSIE MOODLEY is a former teacher and trade unionist and is the Director of the Workers’ College, Durban.
LINDA COOPER is an Associate Professor in the School of Education at the University of Cape Town. She has researched and published on workers’ education, and teaches on a program for trade union educators.
BARBARA JONES has a Masters in Adult Education from the University of Cape Town, and many years of practitioner experience. She currently works as a consultant researcher in adult and higher education.
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Parties annexes
Note biographique
MPHUTLANE WA BOFELO est poète et travailleur culturel. Il estprésentement facilitateur au Workers’ College de Durban.
ANITHA SHAH, anciennement bibliothécaire et travailleuse del’information, est coordonnatrice des ressources à tempspartiel au Workers’ College de Durban.
KESSIE MOODLEY a enseigné et oeuvré comme syndicaliste.Il est maintenant directeur du Workers’ College de Durban.
LINDA COOPER est professeur agrégé à l’École de l’éducation de l’Université de Cape Town. Elle a effectué des recherches et publié des articles sur la formation des travailleurs. Elle enseigne au sein d’un programme destiné aux formateurs syndicaux.
BARBARA JONES a complété une maîtrise en éducation des adultes à l’Université de Cape Town et possède de nombreuses années d’expérience professionnelle. Elle travaille actuellement comme consultant chercheur en éducation aux adultes et enseignement supérieur.