Future Education Scenarios in 2050: Causal Layered Analysis Study through Scholars' Collective Dialogue

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Sunday 9:45 am
  In Poster Session: Inquiry in the Social Contexts of Education

Abstract

This study explores Chinese university scholars' anticipatory imagination of future education scenarios in 2050 and their cultural cognitive mechanisms. Using Causal Layered Analysis with a “phenomenal expression-cultural institutional systems-deep metaphors” framework, the research analyses data from an international symposium. Findings reveal scholars envisage 2050 education as: (1) organisationally transcending institutional boundaries towards societywide learning ecology; (2) axiologically integrating technology whilst maintaining humanistic principles; (3) pedagogically enabling personalised learning through relational networked environments. The study uncovers underlying mechanisms: systematic responses to current educational predicaments drive imagination generation; "incremental innovation" logic pervades conceptualisations; reflection on human existence constitutes fundamental generative processes. Most scholars favour "water" metaphors, reflecting traditional contextual cognitive modes, relational thinking, holistic cognition, and harmonious cultural wisdom.

Authors

• yuanyuan zhu, Shanghai Normal University

• Yuhua Bu, East China Normal University

• Meng Dai, Jiangsu Second Normal University

• Qing Liu, East China Normal University

• Jinshen YU, Jiangnan University

• GAI PINGYUN, East China Normal University

• Heng Li, East China Normal University