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This article explores the complex role of fairy tales in moral education. Lewin argues that while fairy tales often contain elements of horror and violence, these elements can be crucial for engaging children and prompting moral reflection. He proposes a distinction between problematic reductionism, where the complexities of fairy tales are sanitized, and pedagogical reduction, which simplifies stories for educational purposes without sacrificing their core themes.
Lewin (2020) opens the discussion by acknowledging the enduring presence of fairy tales in childhood education and their perceived role in moral development. However, he raises a critical point: fairy tales often contain elements that can be unsettling for children, such as violence and horror. Traditional approaches to moral education might advocate for sanitizing these elements, essentially creating a watered-down version of the original story. Lewin argues against this approach, calling it "problematic reductionism." Instead, he proposes a more nuanced strategy – "pedagogical reduction." This approach acknowledges the need to simplify certain aspects of fairy tales for educational purposes, but emphasizes the importance of preserving the core themes and complexities that make these stories so engaging and morally rich.
The article utilizes philosophical analysis, drawing on existing literature and theoretical frameworks surrounding moral development and the role of storytelling in education.
Lewin concludes by advocating for a nuanced approach to using fairy tales in moral education. He argues that while some elements may be unsettling, they can be valuable tools for sparking critical thinking and discussions about morality. By utilizing pedagogical reduction thoughtfully, educators can leverage the power of fairy tales to engage children and promote moral development.
The article acknowledges that the effectiveness of using fairy tales in moral education can be influenced by factors like the age of the child and the cultural context. Future research could explore these nuances and investigate how educators can best utilize fairy tales in diverse educational settings.
Je vertrek voorbereiden of je verzekering afsluiten bij studie, stage of onderzoek in het buitenland
Study or work abroad? check your insurance options with The JoHo Foundation
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