Outside in: a critically compassionate approach to education for civic engagement

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to describe a method for preparing teacher candidates to educate for civic engagement through a philosophy of critical compassion. Design/methodology/approach It begins with an examination of citizenship’s contextual relevancy and the importance of developing citizens who possess the adaptability to practice compassion in a variety of contexts. It provides a series of example art-based discussion activities founded on the principles of introspection and community. Such activities offer potential to foster a compassionate sense of personal self-worth with candidates through a sense of inner care. Findings Candidates develop a sense of self-appreciation sourced independently from patterns of social controls and promoting an empathy toward other people that they, in turn, can develop in their students. Originality/value These processes offer potential to empower candidates to view citizenship as a process of social engagement that respects the equitable contribution of all participants.