Promoting Empathy and Inclusiveness of Vulnerable Learners in Rural Learning Ecologies

Abstract

Hatred and prejudice can significantly harm vulnerable learners who often face socio-economic and cultural challenges in rural learning environments. This needs to be addressed using collaboration efforts to promote education, empathy and inclusive values as well as by challenging and eliminating the underlying hatred and prejudices that fuel it. Thus, this paper explored John Dewey’s educational philosophy, Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) and its potential to reduce hatred and prejudice in education through transformative learning ecologies. The study utilised secondary data from various digital resources to understand the issue of hatred and prejudice in rural learning ecologies. The study adopted the hermeneutic interpretative technique to understand the data, noting assumptions, codes, patterns, and themes. The findings indicate that incorporating Dewey’s vision into SoTL can foster inclusive learning environments, particularly for rural students, promoting tolerance and acceptance. This approach encourages students to challenge discrimination, understand diverse perspectives and contribute to a more inclusive society, thereby fostering a more caring and respectful environment. Investments in infrastructure, professional development, curriculum updates, partnerships and community involvement are essential to fostering empathy, critical thinking, and the rejection of hatred and prejudice. The paper concluded that building bridges of understanding, fostering dialogue, and promoting respect and acceptance are crucial in countering hate and creating a more compassionate and inclusive society. This research recommended that educators should continuously improve their teaching strategies through research, collaboration and sharing best practices, and should respect vulnerable rural learners by creating a safe learning environment. An empirical study needs to be conducted to understand and minimise the impact of hatred and prejudice. Keywords: Empathy, Hatred and Prejudice, Scholarship of Teaching and Learning, Inclusive Education, Rural Learning Ecologies