Capabilities approach

Definition

The capabilities approach is a theoretical framework that emphasizes the importance of individuals' abilities and opportunities to achieve well-being and a fulfilling life. It focuses on what people can do with their resources and skills, rather than just the resources themselves, thus highlighting the role of personal agency in shaping one's life outcomes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The capabilities approach was developed by philosopher Amartya Sen and further expanded by Martha Nussbaum, who both emphasized its significance in evaluating human development.
2. This approach argues that traditional measures of success, like GDP, fail to capture people's actual well-being and opportunities.
3. A key aspect of the capabilities approach is its focus on individual differences, acknowledging that people have diverse needs and aspirations.
4. In education, the capabilities approach suggests that schools should aim to expand students' capabilities by providing equitable access to resources and fostering a supportive learning environment.
5. The capabilities approach has been influential in shaping policies aimed at reducing poverty and promoting social justice, as it seeks to empower individuals to lead lives they value.

Review Questions

• How does the capabilities approach differ from traditional measures of success in education?
  • The capabilities approach differs from traditional measures like standardized test scores or graduation rates by focusing on what individuals can achieve with their abilities and opportunities. While traditional measures often emphasize outputs or economic factors, the capabilities approach looks at whether students have the necessary skills and resources to pursue meaningful lives. This shift encourages a more holistic view of education that values personal growth and individual potential.
• Discuss how the concept of agency is integrated into the capabilities approach and its implications for educational practice.
  • Agency is a fundamental component of the capabilities approach because it highlights the role of individuals in making choices that affect their lives. In educational practice, this means creating an environment where students feel empowered to take charge of their learning and pursue their interests. By fostering agency, educators can help students develop critical thinking skills and resilience, enabling them to navigate challenges and make informed decisions about their futures.
• Evaluate how implementing the capabilities approach in educational settings could address social inequalities and promote inclusive practices.
  • Implementing the capabilities approach in education can significantly address social inequalities by ensuring that all students have equitable access to resources and opportunities. By focusing on individual capabilities rather than a one-size-fits-all curriculum, educators can tailor learning experiences to meet diverse needs and aspirations. This inclusive practice not only empowers marginalized groups but also cultivates a more just society where all individuals can thrive according to their values and potentials.

Related terms

Functionings: Functionings refer to the various things a person may value doing or being, such as being healthy, educated, or employed, representing the actual achievements of an individual.

Agency: Agency is the capacity of individuals to act independently and make their own choices, which is central to the capabilities approach as it recognizes the importance of personal decision-making in achieving well-being.

Well-being: Well-being refers to the state of being comfortable, healthy, and happy, often evaluated through various indicators such as health, education, and income, which are all considered within the capabilities approach.