pedagogy

American  

[ped-uh-goh-jee, -goj-ee] / ˈpɛd əˌgoʊ dʒi, -ˌgɒdʒ i /

noun

plural

pedagogies

1. the function or work of a teacher; teaching.

2. the art or science of teaching; education; instructional methods.

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pedagogy British  

/ -ˌɡɒdʒɪ, ˈpɛdəˌɡɒɡɪ, -ˌɡəʊdʒɪ /

noun

1. the principles, practice, or profession of teaching

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Etymology

Origin of pedagogy

First recorded in 1570–80; from Middle French pédagogie, from Greek paidagōgía “office of a child's tutor.” See pedagogue, -y ³

Explanation

Pedagogy is another word for education, the profession and science of teaching. Pedagogy and pedagogue come from the Greek paidos "boy, child" plus agogos "leader." Pedagogy refers to the teaching profession as well as the science of education, for example as a college subject. This might be one reason that the word, pedagogue, is often used for a teacher who is overly interested in rules and details, hence the science of teaching, rather than actually getting through to his or her students.

Example Sentences

That would, in fact, count as state-of-the-art pedagogy in many schools.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 9, 2026

Some children might indeed get a leg up on an exciting and rewarding career, but too often, employers will prioritize profits over pedagogy.

From Slate • Nov. 20, 2024

He is one of the architects of critical pedagogy and the recipient of numerous international awards for this work in education.

From Salon • Nov. 18, 2024

“The substantial number of U.S.-trained professors in China has allowed Chinese grad students to stay home and still benefit from U.S. academic pedagogy and research networks,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 18, 2024

This chapter also familiarizes the reader with each method’s philosophy and principles, unique pedagogy, and practices and activities.

From "Music and the Child" by Natalie Sarrazin