“Less Is More”: Taoist Perspective to Rethink Extending Culturally Relevant Pedagogy to (International) Higher Education

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Wednesday 1:45pm
  In Poster Session: Confucianism, Buddhism and Taoism in Education

Abstract

This inquiry examines the critical praxis of two educators integrating culturally responsive teaching practices with Taoist philosophy—specifically wuwei (non-action)—as articulated in the Chinese classic Tao Te Ching. By bridging culturally relevant pedagogy and wuwei philosophy, this study constructs a conceptual framework that facilitates a cross-cultural dialogue in international higher education. It seeks to answer two central questions: (1) In what ways does the philosophy of wuwei challenge culturally relevant pedagogy within multicultural, international higher education contexts? (2) How can wuwei be meaningfully incorporated through a cross-cultural pedagogical approach? Findings may inform curriculum theorization and educational policymaking from a Taoist perspective.

Authors

• Wenjin Guo, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology

• Siyuan Gong, Chang'an University