The Praxis of Soka Educational Philosophy in Brazil: Convergence of Eastern and Western Educational Ideas

• In Event: Moscone Center West Roundtable Session 8
  In Roundtable Session: Constructing a Teacherly Identity: Perspectives From Australia, Brazil, and the United States

Abstract

Utilizing the research method of narrative inquiry, the paper explores qualities of educators who apply Soka educational philosophy, originally from the East, in different educational contexts in Brazil: 1) at the ECE-12 Brazil Soka School and 2) through a volunteer-run professional development program that shares ideas of this philosophy with public school teachers. Soka, which translates from Japanese to mean “value-creating,” educational philosophy is examined through dialogues with educators who identify as “Soka” educators. This qualitative research provides an analysis of how Soka educators make meaning of their approach to education while embedded within traditional Brazilian schools. The focus on a “culture of care,” while fostering students to become global citizens is driven by teachers who embrace Soka educational philosophy.

Author

• Vicki G Mokuria, Stephen F. Austin State University