Rethinking Education in Light of Complexity Theory: A Concise Philosophical Essay
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This paper reconnoiters the contribution of complexity theory to the understanding and advancement of education. Drawing on the framework of Complex Adaptive Systems (CAS), it argues that learning and development should not be conceptualized as linear or mechanistic processes, but as dynamic, nonlinear, and emergent phenomena. Key notions such as self-organization, interdependence, and non-ergodicity are applied to educational contexts, demonstrating how cognitive and social processes evolve through adaptive interactions. By contrasting algorithmic, deductive tasks with creative, inductive, the study emphasizes the transformative potential of complexity approach in teaching and learning. The discussion underscores the epistemological and practical benefits of adopting complexity theory as a unifying perspective for education. Ultimately, complexity theory provides a robust framework for rethinking educational practices, fostering innovation, resilience, and the integration of diverse epistemological positions
Author: Gkevrou, Maria
Language: English
Subfield: Computational Theory and Mathematics
Field: Computer Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7110816346
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