Praxis

The term praxis (from the Greek word praxis meaning “practice, action, doing”) relates to the [Page 681]transformative possibilities afforded by reflective action. To understand how praxis has and continues to influence the field of curriculum studies, it is important to examine the dialogue related to praxis in curriculum, in the relationships between students and teachers, and in educational research and how, particularly in this field, praxis is tied to education as a form of democracy.

Historically, in curriculum studies, there exists tension between theory and practice, and praxis seeks to bridge that gap. The intersections between theory and practice officially began with Aristotle who explained that praxis is action taken by an individual who has been informed by knowledge and wisdom. During the Enlightenment, practice and ...