Why Study the Cultural Foundations of Education? Insights from Program Coordinator Dr. Natasha Levinson

Education is about more than lesson plans, curriculum and policy. Every educational decision is shaped by history, culture, philosophy, politics and society. Understanding those connections is what sets leaders apart—and it is the foundation of Kent State University’s online Master of Education in Cultural Foundations.

To learn more about what makes this program unique, we spoke with Dr. Natasha Levinson, program coordinator and professor in Kent State’s College of Education, Health and Human Services. Drawing from decades of experience in philosophy of education and educational policy, Dr. Levinson explains how the program helps professionals become more thoughtful, ethical and effective leaders in education and beyond.

Looking Beyond Educational Policy

Dr. Levinson’s passion for Cultural Foundations began while studying philosophy of education in the Educational Policy Studies program at the University of Illinois. There, she worked alongside leading scholars in philosophy, history and sociology of education—experiences that continue to shape her teaching today.

“Educational policies are not made in a vacuum,” Dr. Levinson says. “A deep understanding of the historical, sociological and political contexts of education keeps the ambitions of educational policies in check, reminding us of the complexities of education in pluralistic societies.”

That perspective is central to Kent State’s online M.Ed. in Cultural Foundations. Rather than focusing only on educational outcomes, students explore the ethical questions, historical influences and social contexts that shape education and affect learners, educators and communities.

“I’m particularly interested in the elements of education that are difficult to measure or even observe empirically,” Dr. Levinson explains. “The interdisciplinary dimensions of Cultural Foundations open space to explore essential but often overlooked aspects of education.”

A Personalized Program for Working Professionals

The online Master of Education in Cultural Foundations is designed for professionals who want to deepen their understanding of education while continuing to work.

“Our students are already engaged in meaningful work,” Dr. Levinson says. “Some want to improve their practice, while others want to better understand what’s already working so their organizations can build on those strengths.”

Because the program maintains small class sizes, faculty can provide individualized advising that aligns with each student’s professional goals. Whether students are looking to advance in their current careers, transition into new educational roles or explore new interests through their practicum and capstone projects, the program offers flexibility and personalized support.

“Our graduates develop a strong sense of professional responsibility that inclines them to build communities of ethical educational practice in their workplaces and community contexts.”

Although the program is fully online, students still develop meaningful relationships with classmates and faculty through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous coursework. One graduate even traveled from California to attend commencement, where he celebrated with fellow students he had met entirely online.

Education Happens Everywhere

While many students have backgrounds in K-12 or higher education, the online M.Ed. in Cultural Foundations welcomes professionals from a wide variety of industries.

According to Dr. Levinson, students come from schools, colleges and universities, community organizations, nonprofit agencies, cultural institutions and after-school programs. Others work in healthcare, business, corporate training and professional development, or higher education administration.

“We appeal to students who understand themselves to be doing educational work in many different contexts,” she says.

This broad approach reflects the program’s belief that education extends far beyond traditional classrooms.

Learning Through Community-Engaged Inquiry

One of the program’s defining experiences is the community-engaged inquiry project, where students apply educational research to real challenges within their own workplaces or communities.

Dr. Levinson recalls one recent graduate who examined a coaching-based approach to performance assessment for culinary employees at Kent State University.

Rather than treating evaluations as routine compliance exercises, the project demonstrated how educational theory could create more meaningful opportunities for employee growth and development. Students also prepare executive summaries that can be shared with organizational leaders, allowing their research to make an immediate impact.

“This is educational research in action,” Dr. Levinson says.

A Global Perspective on Educational Leadership

Before joining Kent State, Dr. Levinson was involved in the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa, an experience that continues to shape her perspective on education.

She believes educators must recognize both the possibilities and limitations of educational institutions. While education plays a vital role in creating positive change, it is one of many competing priorities within society.

“My courses—and our program—offer a kind of educational release without relinquishing the sense of educational responsibility that is essential for anyone in this field.”

Students are encouraged to examine educational questions through historical, philosophical, political and sociological lenses while exploring how similar challenges have been addressed across different places and time periods. This approach helps graduates become more reflective practitioners who are equipped to make informed decisions within their own organizations and communities.

Is the Online M.Ed. in Cultural Foundations Right for You?

If you’re passionate about understanding education beyond instructional practice, the online Master of Education in Cultural Foundations offers an opportunity to deepen your perspective while advancing your career.

Whether you work in K-12 education, higher education, nonprofit leadership, healthcare, community organizations or corporate learning, the program provides the knowledge and critical thinking skills to examine educational issues from multiple perspectives and lead with purpose.

As Dr. Levinson puts it, the goal is simple: to help students better understand the work they are already doing, explore new possibilities and build stronger, more ethical educational communities wherever they serve. If that sounds like the next step in your professional journey, apply now or learn more about Kent State’s online Master of Education in Cultural Foundations today.