Theory, critique and transformative practice: A foundational commitment
Friday, May 15, 2026
12:00 PM – 12:45 PM Presentation and Q & A
Location: Zoom link: Click Here
Faculty, staff, students, alumni and members of the public welcome!
Presented by Dr. Madhavi Tandon – Assistant Teaching Professor, for EDFN
The presentation describes a teaching philosophy grounded in critical theory, emphasizing that education is inherently political and should be used to examine and challenge inequality. It integrates frameworks like Critical Race Theory and Postcolonial Theory to connect theory with lived experience and develop students’ critical analysis skills. The approach centers on dialogue, reflection, and real-world application, while valuing adult learners’ experiences and engaging them as active participants. The classroom is intentionally structured as a rigorous yet supportive space that affirms diverse identities, particularly for students from historically marginalized groups, and incorporates collaborative practices, flexible structures, and responsive mentoring. Overall, the goal is to prepare educators who are theoretically informed, critically aware, and committed to equity in both practice and institutional change.
A brief bio for Dr. Madhavi Tandon
Madhavi Tandon is an educator with over three decades of teaching experience across three continents. Her connection to CU Denver is deep-rooted, purposeful, and personal. Grounded in critical theory and a commitment to equity, she teaches at both the undergraduate and graduate levels through a pedagogy centered on dialogue, practice, and reflection. She believes that when diverse voices are meaningfully included, the policies and practices that emerge more fully reflect the communities they serve, a conviction that extends into her service work, where she contributes to committees, initiatives, and collaborative spaces that foster inclusive decision-making and strengthen both institutions and the individuals within them. Her research and scholarly interests include teacher pipeline programs and immigrant studies.
Dr. Madhavi Tandon’s CV can be found here. Please note that certain personal information has been redacted.
Please arrive and/or log on to Zoom a few minutes prior to the presentation as we will start promptly.
Please share your feedback by Tuesday, May 19th using the below short survey link: https://ucdenverdata.formstack.com/forms/candidate_feedback_form