Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - EDUC 902A G001

Interdisciplinary Seminar in Contemporary Educational Theory A (3)

Class Number: 3137

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Thu, 4:30–7:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Corequisites:

    EDUC 902B.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Contemporary educational theories and theories from supporting disciplines (e.g., psychology, sociology, philosophy) will be examined and analysed. The relationships among contemporary theories, current practice and educational change will be focal.

COURSE DETAILS:

In this seminar we will explore the contested terrain of contemporary educational theory and the application of these theories to educational settings. Questions to be explored include (but are not limited to): What does it mean to say someone is educated?

What does it mean to live well with and for others? (both human and more-than-human others) What are the qualities of dialogue? How does dialogue look in education spaces?What roles do race, class, gender, religion, and ability play in education?

What role does (or should) education play in identity formation and identity politics?

What does it mean to take critical theory critically? How can we imagine education in an era of AI and social media?

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

  • Understanding of contemporary educational theories through the application of these ideas in various social, moral, cultural, ecological, and political contexts;
  • Proficiencies in inquiry, analysis, interpretation, critique, and theory-building within research and educational practices;
  • Conceptual understanding of the discursive relationships between theory, practice, and reflection in education through disciplined study, dialogue, presentations, and academic writing.

Grading

  • Final Paper 30%
  • Online discussions 20%
  • Inquiry assignments (3x10%) 30%
  • Presentation 20%

NOTES:

No final exam

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

All required readings, videos, and music recordings will be available online either through the SFU Library or through links posted here in the syllabus or on Canvas.


REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Graduate Studies Notes:

Important dates and deadlines for graduate students are found here: http://www.sfu.ca/dean-gradstudies/current/important_dates/guidelines.html. The deadline to drop a course with a 100% refund is the end of week 2. The deadline to drop with no notation on your transcript is the end of week 3.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.