Pedagogical Practices for Social Justice: A Movement Approach

Abstract

This article describes the structure and social justice orientation of Gonzaga University's Leadership Formation Program, an innovative, nontraditional graduate program preparing principals, program administrators, and superintendents. Highlighting the virtual school district and complex case study approach used in the program, the article details three pedagogical practices central to preparing leaders to engage issues of social justice. Through the use of seminar readings, rigorous coaching of specific skill capacities, and case study simulations, the faculty engage candidates in the program to understand their roles as educational leaders and work as activists for social justice. The program teaches educational leaders that the answer does not lie “out there” but rather “inside” and that individuals committed to collectively reducing injustice can be a powerful force. Finally, a movement approach to confronting issues of social justice and taking action underscores the program's mandate that justice demands transforming the system.