#92 Bourdieu in Schools w/ Dr Alexander Gardener-McTaggart
May 20, 2024
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Dr. Alexander Gardener-McTaggart simplifies Pierre Bourdieu's concepts for educators, discussing habitus, field, and distinction. They delve into relationships, power dynamics in schools, military vs. sailing training experiences, keys to collaboration, and dinner guests like Karl Marx, Jesus, and Frida Kahlo.
Recognizing and applying Bourdieu's concepts of habitus, field, and distinction in education
Understanding the importance of leadership dynamics and strategic vision in school organizations
Collaboration, transparency, and trust as key factors for human success and achievement
Deep dives
Teaching Experience and Academic Journey
Dr. Alexander Gardner-Mattager shares his journey into teaching starting in 1995 after various career paths. Teaching diverse groups like waiters and cooks in Austria sparked his passion, leading to academic aspirations despite financial constraints. His determination led to pursuing a Master's and PhD while teaching internationally, emphasizing the challenges faced in obtaining British qualifications.
Field of Power and Habitus in Schools
The discussion delves into Pierre Bourdieu's concept of habitus and societal power dynamics within the education sector. The interplay between individual freedom encouraged in schools and societal constraints abroad is explored. Dr. Alex highlights the alignment of habitus with societal expectations, emphasizing how adopting suitable practices can affect success within different fields.
Leadership Dynamics and Cultural Capital in Schools
The importance of leadership dynamics, illustrated through military hierarchy, is highlighted as critical for success in organizations like schools. The necessity for strategic vision alongside operational efficiency is emphasized. Additionally, the concept of cultural capital linked to aligning with habitus and social constructs is discussed as a means to navigate and thrive in diverse school environments.
Collaboration as the Evolutionary Superpower
Humans' success as the apex animal on Earth is attributed to collaboration. Opposable thumbs enabled tool-making without the need for natural weaponry evolution. The ability to share complex information and collaborate led to monumental human achievements like moon landing and monumental structures. Transparency and trust in leadership enhance collaboration through valuing, empowering, and enabling individuals.
Cultural Capital and Power Dynamics
Cultural capital, economic capital, and social capital are crucial in understanding societal hierarchies. Cultural capital encompasses knowledge and education, economic capital involves wealth and assets, and social capital pertains to social connections and influence. Significance attributed to these capitals varies across countries and societies, impacting individuals' opportunities and positions. Understanding and navigating power dynamics, particularly through empathy and contextual understanding, play essential roles in leadership and societal interactions.
Dr Alexander Gardener-McTaggart simplifies the work of Pierre Bourdieu by discussing how educators can recognise, use and apply Bourdieu's concepts of 'habitus', 'field' and 'distinction' in our day to day interactions with all the school community.
Lewis and Alan discuss research, look at trends and have a good chat with the odd guest to support those working in education to be better educators and be better humans.
Special thanks to our sponsor partners Tsunami Sport, the leading eco teamwear brand. Thanks also to Stephen Jones for our dynamic content, and to Eloisa Keens for the Artwork and Branding.
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