250444 Theories of Belonging in Learning Environments (S) (WiSe 2023/2024)

This course provides a comprehensive exploration of theories underpinning the concept of belonging in learning environments. Through an in-depth examination of motivational, relational, and sociological/ecological theories, students will gain insights into the intricate dynamics of belonging. Motivational theories, including the Hierarchy of Needs (Maslow, 1968, 1971), Self-Determination Theory (Deci & Ryan, 2001), Choice Theory (Glasser, 1986), and Belongingness Hypothesis (Baumeister & Leary, 1995), illuminate the intrinsic connection between the need for belonging and individual motivation.

Relational theories, such as Attachment Theory (Bowlby, 1969), Framework of Parental Involvement (Epstein, 1992), Social Capital Theory (Putnam, 2000), and Theory of Social Motives (Fiske, 2004), scrutinize the influence of social entities on an individual's sense of belonging within learning environments. Additionally, sociological/ecological theories, encompassing the Symbolic Construction of Community (Cohen, 1985) and the Socioecological Model of Human Development (Bronfenbrenner, 1994), shed light on the broader societal and ecological contexts shaping one's sense of belonging.

Throughout this course, students engage in a scholarly exploration and synthesis of these diverse theoretical perspectives, deepening their understanding of belonging within learning environments. By course completion, students will possess comprehensive knowledge of belonging theories and their implications in educational contexts, enabling them to critically analyze and explore the sense of belonging within learning environments.

A place allocation procedure will take place in this event. Please inform yourself about the procedure here: https://www.uni-bielefeld.de/fakultaeten/erziehungswissenschaft/studium-und-lehre/einrichtungen/bie/faq-stundenplan