ABSTRACT
The editor of this engaging text, Martin Lipscomb, traces its genesis to experiences of ‘water cooler conversations’. Conversations that many of us can relate to. Those generally fast encounters by coolers, photocopiers or in coffee queues. Conversations that spark reflection on tantalising philosophical questions relating to our educational practice. Conversations that open up question areas which are then swiftly shut down as we move on to the next administrative task. These questions continue to bother us, like an intellectual itch, which we subdue by persuading ourselves that someone else will attend to them. Sadly, too often, these important questions – or wicked problems – are not attended to. Or, at least, not attended to in any sustained, slow and critically engaged way.
