Harm Reduction Pedagogy: Developing a Pedagogy of Care During a Crisis

This chapter provides a review of innovative teaching strategies that integrate Harm Reduction principles and a care ethics approach in classroom spaces to support students’ complex realities during a crisis. To emphasize Harm Reduction’s compassionate framework in educational settings, the author suggests redefining classroom norms to prioritize relational connections, personalized assessments, and the acknowledgment of structural inequalities. These changes foster a sense of belonging and empowerment, particularly benefiting students historically underserved by traditional university systems. These practices are not only relevant in crisis, but also serve as a blueprint for future pedagogical development, highlighting the transformative potential of integrating Harm Reduction and care ethics into teaching practices.