ABSTRACT

This chapter introduces and defines social justice as a key concept in curriculum. It takes us from etymology through Marxism and civil rights into the realm of education and a pedagogy of cultural action, and argues for a concept whose meanings are dynamic and contested. The positioning of teachers and questions of power and equity in education are discussed before a consideration of the future of social justice in curriculum and its study is presented. This introduction to the concept of social justice in curriculum theory is accompanied by personal reflections on the key concept from a teacher and a student who further explore social justice in the context of teaching and learning. The chapter concludes with some suggested discussion questions for use in curriculum studies courses and by curriculum theory students.