Educational Psychology—Limitations and Possibilities

Knowledge in a Reconceptualized Educational Environment 509
one perspective that aligns with their ideological position. In this case, correct or valid knowledge
is that which promotes the economic, cultural, social, and political perspectives that allow a reproduction
of their ideological position. Knowledge production is viewed as an activity that must
be closely controlled so that only certain knowledge or representations of knowledge become
the norm. The aspects of educational psychology that are identified as relevant foundations for
educational theory and practice are those that will produce the desired outcome.
In contrast, proponents of diversity see the purpose of education as the construction of critically
aware individuals who have the disposition and capacity to think independently and take action
that is based on a concern for social justice, caring, and participatory democracy. The inherent
consequence of this educational purpose is a pluralistic society that values difference and diversity,
and acts to promote empowerment and emancipation from oppression. In this case, correct or
valid knowledge is viewed as an ongoing construction that must be continuously scrutinized in
relation to its critical consequences. Knowledge is not viewed as value-neutral but value-laden,
not external to the knower but inseparable from the knower. Knowledge production is viewed as
a political activity that must be constantly and critically interrogated to determine the economic,
cultural, social, and political perspectives and their consequences. The aspects of educational
psychology that are identified as relevant foundations for educational theory and practice are
those that contribute to the construction of a just, caring, and democratic citizenry and society.