Conference Theme

Comparative Education and Development Alternatives

Critiques, innovations and transitions

The aim of this conference is to consider how central concepts in the field of comparative and international education – such as development, sustainability and global social justice– can be reimagined in order to offer new trajectories for educational research, policy and practice. We want to unpick what we mean by the idea of education for sustainable development and examine the different ways education might play out to meet – or challenge – the sustainable development goals (SDGs). This means searching for alternative approaches and reimagining the intersections between the many debates. Through this dialogue we hope to challenge dominant frameworks in order to imagine new possibilities for the future.

We welcome papers that discuss comparative and international education, formal and non-formal learning at primary, secondary and tertiary education, in all contexts including high, middle and low income countries across all global regions. Papers which reflect on innovative or alternative approaches that speak to the SDGs and the role education has to play in meeting these are particularly welcome, as well as analyses that explore the contributions of indigenous knowledges, postcolonial approaches, de-growth, civic agency and social movements. Transformative or innovative education initiatives that challenge inequalities in any context, break boundaries, or provide solutions to social challenges in times of uncertainty or crisis, are all encouraged.