Praxis

Praxis is the cycle of reflection and action that leads to transformation. Rooted in critical pedagogy and philosophy, the term was popularized by Paulo Freire in Pedagogy of the Oppressed (1970), where he describes it as the essential process of liberation. Unlike passive learning, Praxis requires individuals to critically analyze their reality, recognize systems of oppression, and take conscious action to change them.

Praxis is a key component of the Pathfinder Educational Model (PEM), which rejects passive, Assembly Line Education in favor of Problem-Posing Education and Conscientização (Critical Consciousness). In the Pathfinder system, learning is not just about acquiring knowledge—it is about using that knowledge to heal, empower, and transform the world.

Freire's Terms

Paulo Freire > Banking Model, Conscientização, Culture of Silence, Dehumanization, Dialogic Method, Praxis, Problem-Posing Education

The Three Stages of Praxis

1. Reflection (Critical Awareness) – The individual or group analyzes social, political, or economic realities, questioning dominant ideologies and identifying systems of oppression.
2. Action (Transformation in Practice) – Based on this critical awareness, they take deliberate action to challenge and transform oppressive structures.
3. Continuous Learning (Iterative Process) – Praxis is an ongoing cycle—after action, new reflection leads to deeper understanding and more refined action.

Related LP Terms

Praxis >

Non-LP Related Terms

Praxis > Conscientização, Praxis, Problem-Posing Education

Notes

The Pathfinder system integrates Praxis into education by ensuring that learning is:

• Student-driven and experiential – Learners engage in real-world applications rather than passive content absorption.
• Rooted in Critical Consciousness – Education must awaken students to social realities and equip them with tools for change.
• Transformative – Learning must lead to action, not just academic understanding.

Example: In Pathfinder Learning Pods, students do not simply study environmental issues—they engage in projects that actively restore ecosystems. Learning is tied to tangible impact.

Praxis vs. Traditional Learning Models

Traditional Education (Banking Model)	Pathfinder Education (Praxis-Based)
Knowledge is deposited into students	Knowledge is co-created
Learning is passive and abstract	Learning is active and connected to real life
Education maintains the status quo	Education transforms individuals and society
Reflection is discouraged	Reflection is essential
Action is limited to obedience	Action is empowered and transformative

Quotes

📢 "Liberating education consists in acts of cognition, not transferrals of information." – Paulo Freire

📢 "Reflection and action upon the world in order to transform it." – Paulo Freire on Praxis

📢 "The philosophers have only interpreted the world, in various ways; the point, however, is to change it." – Karl Marx