THE DEVELOPMENT AND CURRENT STATE OF SOCIAL PEDAGOGY IN THE IBEROAMERICAN REGION: A VIEW BEYOND THE HORIZON OF CENTRAL EUROPE
Abstract
This theoretical study outlines the historical as well as current developments in social pedagogy in the region of Latin America. Its goal is to offer Czech academic audiences an added perspective of the field and to broaden the discussions on the various interpretations of social pedagogy in the Czech Republic.
The article is divided into three sections. Firstly, it showcases the intellectual development of social pedagogy in Spain, spanning the period from the so-called Generation 1914 (influenced by neo-Kantian philosophy, as well as by P.
Natorp) to the contemporary concept of social pedagogy as the theoretical framework of professionally oriented social work. The second part introduces folk education as one of the principal sources of knowledge for social pedagogy in Latin America.
Its overall portrayal is complemented by a summary of key activities undertaken in recent decades by the academic community in Latin America in order to support the development of social pedagogy there. Among the article's conclusions is the fact that social pedagogy in Latin America is a very dynamic field.
It is understood as a science that focusses on social integration of individuals, groups and communities, with the aim of helping them become part of the many diverse social networks that make up democratic society defined by pluralism. The necessity for social pedagogy to constantly reflect on its theoretical and methodological principles, along with the impact of its interventions from the perspective of democratic and emancipatory values, is emphasized as well.