FTCE Reading K-12 Practice Exam

What movement did Paulo Freire significantly contribute to?

1. Constructivist teaching

2. Critical pedagogy

3. Humanistic psychology

4. Montessori education

The correct answer is: Critical pedagogy

Paulo Freire significantly contributed to the movement of critical pedagogy, which emphasizes the importance of critical consciousness and social justice in education. This approach encourages students to critically engage with the world around them and understand the power dynamics at play in society. Freire's seminal work, "Pedagogy of the Oppressed," advocates for an educational process that empowers learners to question and challenge injustices, promoting dialogue and reflection rather than rote memorization. Critical pedagogy seeks to transform educational practices by positioning learners as active participants in their own education, fostering a sense of agency and responsibility. This contrasts with models that may focus more on individual knowledge construction or specific educational methods, such as those found in constructivist teaching, humanistic psychology, or Montessori education. Freire’s influence extends beyond traditional teaching practices, as he emphasizes the roles of social context and power relations in shaping the educational experience.