A philosophical study of alternatives to practices of educational philanthropy

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT : This study explores the structural and conceptual notions underlying educational philanthropy. I hold that many stakeholders in their private and public capacity are assisting and contributing toward quality education for children in South Africa. The concept of help or assistance is understood to be called philanthropy. I therefore constructed and synthesised the concept of educational philanthropy. Different stakeholders practise educational philanthropy in different ways due to various conceptions and understandings. I therefore contend that, in order to assist in education, which is a complex environment, one needs to understand the meanings behind the concepts of educational philanthropy.I have chosen philosophical inquiry to provide me with the conceptual tools to explore and clarify my research question. I have employed three methods of inquiry, namely conceptual analysis, exploring hidden assumptions underlying a particular view or broader school of thought, and questioning the practice of educational philanthropy in order to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the meaning of concepts. I have also used interpretive inquiry and critical theory as my research methodologies.The findings indicate that the literature confirmed my perception that there are different meanings and hidden assumptions attached to the concept of educational philanthropy. This study thus allowed me to gain a better and deeper academic understanding of the concepts I am engaging with in my practice on a daily basis.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University