Developing Pedagogies of Compassion in Higher Education

Beschreibung

This collection addresses intersections and gaps between practice, theory, and research that both connect and divide compassion and pedagogies. In foregrounding practice, it makes an important contribution to the growing call for universities and educators to adopt inclusive student-centred approaches that challenge us to fundamentally re-think what universities do. It celebrates the role of students as co-creators of knowledge, locating them at the heart of what pedagogies of compassion in higher education should feel like and look like. It examines how compassion can become both critical and strategic in order to disrupt systems and orthodoxies that are no longer fit for purpose in a post-pandemic world. The ultimate goal the book aims to address is the need for humane universities driven by compassion, rather than profit, which can help to build fairer and more socially just societies.

The book extends the theoretical and practical discussions of compassion as a fundamental organizing principle in higher education. It brings fresh interdisciplinary thinking, theories and approaches including the neuroscience of compassion, classical Eastern philosophies, intersectional compassion, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. It also includes critical reflection on experiences, challenges, barriers, and enablers, across multiple levels and perspectives. These range from reflections on compassion in the classroom to compassion in the boardroom, as well as in the many other spaces and places where learning occurs. It offers a creative collection of essays on compassionate practices in higher education, and appeals to anyone who is concerned about the moral standing of the university.  

‘For some time now, we have been told that universities must be viewed on the business model, but this has only discouraged faculty, students and staff.  As the contributors show, however, the very idea that teaching and educational practices could be more closely linked to compassion is definitely appealing, and it gives us a more inspiring way of thinking about the university of the future.’

Richard J. White, Creighton University, Omaha, NE, USA

This collection addresses intersections and gaps between practice, theory, and research that both connect and divide compassion and pedagogies. In foregrounding practice, it makes an important contribution to the growing call for universities and educators to adopt inclusive student-centred approaches that challenge us to fundamentally re-think what universities do. It celebrates the role of students as co-creators of knowledge, locating them at the heart of what pedagogies of compassion in higher education should feel like and look like. It examines how compassion can become both critical and strategic in order to disrupt systems and orthodoxies that are no longer fit for purpose in a post-pandemic world. The ultimate goal the book aims to address is the need for humane universities driven by compassion, rather than profit, which can help to build fairer and more socially just societies.

The book extends the theoretical and practical discussions of compassion as a fundamental organizing principle in higher education. It brings fresh interdisciplinary thinking, theories and approaches including the neuroscience of compassion, classical Eastern philosophies, intersectional compassion, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. It also includes critical reflection on experiences, challenges, barriers, and enablers, across multiple levels and perspectives. These range from reflections on compassion in the classroom to compassion in the boardroom, as well as in the many other spaces and places where learning occurs. It offers a creative collection of essays on compassionate practices in higher education, and appeals to anyone who is concerned about the moral standing of the university.  

‘For some time now, we have been told that universities must be viewed on the business model, but this has only discouraged faculty, students and staff.  As the contributors show, however, the very idea that teaching and educational practices could be more closely linked to compassion is definitely appealing, and it gives us a more inspiring way of thinking about the university of the future.’

Richard J. White, Creighton University, Omaha, NE, USA

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Kathryn Waddington

Themen in »Developing Pedagogies of Compassion in Higher Education«

Critical pedagogy compassionate pedagogy higher education management higher education pedagogy inclusive learning and teaching compassion in UK higher education system theory-first systems in higher education everyday awareness as skill in higher education teaching mindfulness Eastern philosophies of the heart and mind National Health Service (NHS) 6C’s model ‘social brain’ Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) framework development of a compassionate brain/mind compassion-based psychoeducation

Stimmen zu »Developing Pedagogies of Compassion in Higher Education«

“Developing Pedagogies of Compassion in Higher Education serves as a reminder to continue to act in ways that demonstrate that compassion is a genuine priority in universities. ... This text will appeal to researchers in higher education and academics who are considering compassion as a mean to repair the detriments resulting from the sector’s concurrent challenges.” (Aysha Mazhar, British Journal of Educational Studies, May 14, 2025)

“Generative AI is the next phase in information access allowing anyone (with the means to use it) to gather and collate a vast range of materials. The academics' role in this is more important than ever to support students to navigate and critically evaluate this complex terrain. Pedagogies of 'transmission' are no longer relevant and should focus instead on transformational learning-to-learn; we should be learning with students, not teaching at them. Compassion is a critical aspect of this artistry of teaching that transcends theoretical pedagogies and enables better learning through the dialogic engagement of humans. This invaluable book offers a supportive companion with timely, contemporary and practical ideas and guidance on differing perspectives of higher education including from students and academics, and of pedagogy and curricula.” (Professor Helen King, Bath Spa University, UK)

“This book is a wealth of wisdom, information and encouragement about how and why we need to put compassion at the root of our learning contacts in educational settings, especially but not only for young people. It draws on a wide range of literatures that offer different concepts, definitions and ways of cultivating of compassion. It is a major contribution to the literature and offers much food and inspiration for thought.” (Professor Paul Gilbert, The Compassionate Mind Foundation, and University of Derby)

“This book is a warm shawl to the increasingly cold shoulders of contemporary higher education. At a time when universities seem more like factories than places to grow intellectually and emotionally, the editors and contributors highlight compassionate practices, an emphasis that applies to places and processes, not just people.” (Professor Paul Crawford, The University of Nottingham)

“This is a vital and original book that provides a roadmap to a more democratic, inclusive, and empowering university system. Through its mix of proven ideas and practical examples it shows how we can shake off old assumptions about the way universities "ought" to be run and find something ultimately more satisfying, fulfilling, and instructive for students and staff alike. Bravo.” (Matt Hawkins, Global Compassion Coalition)

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