In this episode of Conversations4Citizenship, Dr. Felipe Acuña discusses the impact of neoliberalism on education in Chile. He explains how the "bonsai pedagogy" metaphor illustrates the way neoliberal policies constrain teachers' growth and creativity, leading to burnout and loss of joy in their work. Dr. Acuña shares his research on teachers working in experimental schools who are pushing back against these trends and finding enjoyment in their teaching. He emphasizes the importance of treating education as a social right and ensuring teachers are the happiest members of society. Acuña warns against implementing neoliberal education policies, citing Chile's experience with increased segregation and inequality. The conversation also touches on the challenges of moving beyond neoliberalism in South America and globally.

This episode is hosted by Dr. Peter Lang. Please subscribe to the podcast through Apple, Google, Spotify, or Amazon Music. You may also follow @c4c_ed on Twitter. We look forward to hearing your feedback. If you would like to explore participating in our podcast and submit your blog post to the C4C, do not hesitate to reach out through the online participation form or email us at conversations4citizenship@gmail.com

• Further Reading List

1. Acuña, F. (2024). Governing teachers’ subjectivity in neoliberal times: the fabrication of the bonsai teacher. Journal of Education Policy, 39(2), 171-190.
2. Acuña, F., & Fernández Ugalde, R. (2024). Dissenting from what? the rupture of Chilean teachers with the long-term consensus on teacher professional development. Globalisation, Societies and Education, 1-16.
3. Acuña, F., & Corbalán, F. (2023). Giving space to the subject’s potential present: Zemelman’s contributions to Sociology of Education. British Journal of Sociology of Education, 44(8), 1304-1320.

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