HED4804
ASSIGNMENT 1 SEMESTER 1 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: APRIL 2025
, Glossary of Key Terms in Philosophy of Education
1. Decolonisation
Historical Context and Philosophical Origins: Decolonisation involves dismantling
colonial systems and structures, particularly in education, to reclaim indigenous
knowledge and perspectives. Frantz Fanon emphasized the necessity of decolonisation
for authentic liberation, highlighting the psychological and cultural impacts of colonialism
(Fanon, 1963). In the South African context, the #FeesMustFall movement reignited
discussions on decolonising higher education (Heleta, 2016).
Evolution and Contemporary Relevance: Initially focused on political independence,
decolonisation now addresses epistemic justice, advocating for curricula that reflect
diverse cultural narratives. In South Africa, this has led to calls for integrating African
philosophies and knowledge systems into educational frameworks (Le Grange, 2016).
Debates and Controversies: Debates center on the extent and methods of
decolonisation. Some argue for a complete overhaul of existing curricula, while others
advocate for a more integrative approach. Critics caution against the potential loss of
universal educational standards (Jansen, 2017).
Implications for Education in South Africa: Decolonisation in South African
education seeks to redress historical imbalances by valuing indigenous knowledge and
promoting inclusivity. This involves re-evaluating teaching materials, methodologies,
and assessment criteria to better serve a diverse student population (Mbembe, 2016).
2. Epistemology
Historical Context and Philosophical Origins: Epistemology, the study of knowledge,
questions the nature, sources, and limits of human understanding. Western
epistemology has traditionally dominated educational paradigms, often marginalizing
other ways of knowing (Higgs, 2016).
ASSIGNMENT 1 SEMESTER 1 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: APRIL 2025
, Glossary of Key Terms in Philosophy of Education
1. Decolonisation
Historical Context and Philosophical Origins: Decolonisation involves dismantling
colonial systems and structures, particularly in education, to reclaim indigenous
knowledge and perspectives. Frantz Fanon emphasized the necessity of decolonisation
for authentic liberation, highlighting the psychological and cultural impacts of colonialism
(Fanon, 1963). In the South African context, the #FeesMustFall movement reignited
discussions on decolonising higher education (Heleta, 2016).
Evolution and Contemporary Relevance: Initially focused on political independence,
decolonisation now addresses epistemic justice, advocating for curricula that reflect
diverse cultural narratives. In South Africa, this has led to calls for integrating African
philosophies and knowledge systems into educational frameworks (Le Grange, 2016).
Debates and Controversies: Debates center on the extent and methods of
decolonisation. Some argue for a complete overhaul of existing curricula, while others
advocate for a more integrative approach. Critics caution against the potential loss of
universal educational standards (Jansen, 2017).
Implications for Education in South Africa: Decolonisation in South African
education seeks to redress historical imbalances by valuing indigenous knowledge and
promoting inclusivity. This involves re-evaluating teaching materials, methodologies,
and assessment criteria to better serve a diverse student population (Mbembe, 2016).
2. Epistemology
Historical Context and Philosophical Origins: Epistemology, the study of knowledge,
questions the nature, sources, and limits of human understanding. Western
epistemology has traditionally dominated educational paradigms, often marginalizing
other ways of knowing (Higgs, 2016).
