The University Extension and the curriculum. Conceptual considerations to think about integrality in the university curriculum

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to present ideas generated from a dialectical process between a situated critical reflective teaching practice and its enrichment through shared dialogues with an extensionist collective within the context of the Advanced Diploma in Critical University Extension at UNICEN.

This paper examines the relationship between university extension and the curriculum as a political-pedagogical project that reflects the social function of the university, the purpose of education, the connection between theory and practice, teaching and learning modalities, and the production and transmission of knowledge. Different orientations in the design and development of the university curriculum and extension practices are analyzed, providing elements for critical analysis and the transformation of these practices.

These ideas aim to contribute to the reflection, construction and formulation of principles that, based on ethical and political positioning, foster the development of a university committed to its environment and embrace university extension as an integral and integrative function. Through this approach, the aim is to strengthen training and research programs and promote active participation in university extension as an agent for creating scenarios and promoting social well-being.