Any pedagogical process involves certain adjustments on the part of educators to support learning. Often, these make matters easier for the learner, with accommodations such as slowing down or simplifying explanations, scaffolding, or the provision of examples. However, simplification may at times conflict with the value of challenges and depth in education. This seminar aims to stimulate philosophical and theoretical discussion of educational simplifications and difficulties with a view to informing theory and praxis.
We invite abstracts of approx 300 words for oral presentations on this theme. Example questions relevant to this call for papers include: the level of challenge in the curriculum; pedagogical choices over scaffolding and/or differentiation; resistance or discomfort inherent in transformational learning; issues around the use of technology in simplifying or easing educational processes. Many other issues could also be considered via the lens of ease/support versus difficulty/challenge.
Deadline for proposals: Friday 3rd October, 2025. Seminar date and venue: Thursday 6th November 2025 at the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland. Organised by the Advanced Pedagogical Theory subtheme.