Work

“Feeling With”: Sensory–Material Interaction and Embodied Freedom in a Progressive Democratic School in England

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT The relationship between the senses and social interaction within schools is often overlooked in existing studies. Drawing on evidence generated through ethnography and Photovoice in a progressive democratic school, we apply new materialist approaches to explore the relational dynamics of affective sensorial–material interactions to afford embodied freedom. The school's approach prioritizes “feeling with” as sensory engagement with materials, enabling negotiated comforts and expression in learning environments. We argue this approach can fundamentally reshape educational experiences.

Source: Anthropology & Education Quarterly

DOI: 10.1111/aeq.70041

Authors: Alison Macdonald, Caroline Oliver

Institution: University College London

Language: English

Topic: Posthumanist Ethics and Activism

Subfield: Cultural Studies

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Quality education

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,400