The Social Pedagogy Tree

A metaphor for understanding how social pedagogy is rooted in society – and why it needs to be grown, not transplanted.

The Social Pedagogy Tree – a visual representation of the roots, core and branches of social pedagogical practice.

ROOTS, TRUNK AND BRANCHES

social pedagogy cannot simply be transplanted – it needs to be grown

ThemPra’s Social Pedagogy Tree symbolises that social pedagogy has organically grown out of societal conditions. It is solidly rooted in society, with the different roots representing different strands of influence – theories from related disciplines and the key thinkers who have shaped social pedagogy’s development over time.

The trunk forms the core of what social pedagogy represents in theory and practice: the holistic approach to education in the broadest sense, the centrality of relationships, and the use of observation and reflection as a tool for the continuous development of both people and systems involved in the pedagogic process.

The branches outline the various predominant elements of social pedagogical practice, each underpinned by theory and research. This makes the model useful for connecting theory to practice – for example, knowledge of communication models helps practitioners become more self-reflective and conscious of how they communicate.

ROOTS AND WINGS

Growing in both directions

As with every tree, growth takes place both above and below the surface. This reflects how social pedagogy interacts between society and the individual. Social pedagogy aims to provide the nurturing conditions that support people and communities in growing in both directions – towards independence and interdependence. As Goethe put it, ‘children need two things from their parents: roots and wings.’

Similar dynamics shape the growth of social pedagogy itself. Through dialogical action, social pedagogy seeks to influence how society is constructed – and in turn, those constructions shape how social pedagogy develops. Because of this vital relationship with society, social pedagogy cannot simply be transplanted. It flourishes best when embedded in the culture and existing practice of the organisations and communities it enters. That takes time, dialogue and constant care.

PUTTING IT INTO PRACTICE

questions to ponder

What are the roots of your own practice? Which ideas, people or experiences have shaped how you work?
If someone watched you for a day, what would they say the trunk of your practice was? What would the people you support say?
Where in your organisation is social pedagogy already flourishing, and where can you grow it further?