– The purpose of this paper is to interconnect pedagogy and biology via second-order cybernetics.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to interconnect pedagogy and biology via second-order cybernetics.
Design/methodology/approach
The approach taken is that of a synthesis.
Findings
Biology can better deal with intersubjectivity within and between species by incorporating approaches and theory from education inquiry. Conversely, educators can de-anthropocentrize their discipline by entering into learning relationships with other species. By rallying around the concept of “eduction”, second-order cybernetics plays a role in both syntheses.
Practical implications
De-anthropocentrizing education could have practical value in creating ecologically relevant education for children and in developing more integrated environmental impact assessments.
Originality/value
Finding convergence between the study of life and forms of practitioner inquiry in education research, and connecting these to the environmental movement.