June 2024, Montreal, Canada — This June, our team had the privilege of participating in the Canadian Society for the Study of Education (CSSE) conference, Canada’s largest gathering of researchers, scholars, graduate students, and practitioners in the field of education. Held in Montreal from June 12 to June 17, the conference provided a platform for exploring theory and praxis across diverse aspects of education, including teacher education, educational psychology, curriculum studies, Indigenous education, and more.
Anita Sinner presented on the theoretical foundations of our research, which focuses on the evolving role of trans-dispositions in global higher education reform. Our study investigates why these trans-dispositions—encompassing aural, verbal, visual, and sensorial aspects, as well as social, actual, and virtual potentials—are critical in a post-pandemic educational landscape. By drawing on frameworks from Cenoz & Gorter (2022), Vogal & Garcia (2017), and Conteh (2018), we use “trans-” as a conceptual lens to explore trans-disciplinary, trans-national, trans-languaging, and trans-media perspectives.
Colleagues Samia ElSheikh, Susana Vargas and Elly Yazdanpanah expanded on these themes through various conversations, workshops, and Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) modules. Susana also discussed digital futures in museum education, showcasing how digital advancements are reshaping learning experiences.
Trish and Cristian presented on the Convergence Initiative, highlighting how art-science collaborations are transforming creative thinking in art education and neuroscience. Their presentation emphasised the transformative potential of integrating art and science in educational settings.
Our research advocates for moving beyond traditional, linear thinking towards more evocative forms of communication that transcend language alone. By promoting heterogeneity, co-creation, and critical resistance, our approach aims to empower students to think differently and embrace more inclusive, diverse, and respectful worldviews.
The CSSE conference was an invaluable opportunity to engage with the broader educational community, share our findings, and explore new avenues for collaborative research and practice. We look forward to the continued impact of our work and future opportunities to contribute to the global dialogue on educational reform.
Stay tuned for more updates on our ongoing projects and future presentations.