Derek Ford

Derek Ford is an Associate Professor of Education Studies and Chair of the Education Studies Department at DePauw University. His work focuses on the relationships between education and political movements, with particular emphasis on Marxist educational theory and revolutionary pedagogy. He serves as deputy editor of the Journal for Critical Education Policy Studies, associate editor of Postdigital Science and Education, and contributing editor at the Hampton Institute.

Dr. Ford's educational background includes a Ph.D. in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University (2015), an M.S. in the same field from Syracuse University (2012), and a B.A. in Peace Studies from Goucher College (2008).

His research interests span critical pedagogy, Marxist educational theory, revolutionary pedagogy, urban education and revolution, aesthetics and education, postdigital education, and critical disability studies. Ford approaches education as a site of political struggle, examining how educational practices can contribute to liberatory social transformation. His work often draws on Marxist theory, critical philosophy, and political movements to develop frameworks for revolutionary education. He has taught courses on foundations of education, urban revolutions, art and politics in education, the politics of sound, radical philosophy, and critical disability studies.

His extensive publication record demonstrates consistent engagement with Marxist educational theory, political philosophy, and critical pedagogy. Ford's work shows a clear trajectory toward developing a comprehensive theory of revolutionary education that connects aesthetic experience, political struggle, and pedagogical practice. His recent publications increasingly focus on the actuality of revolution in educational contexts and the sensory dimensions of political struggle.

Ford is actively involved in mentoring students, with numerous co-authored publications featuring undergraduate researchers. He serves on the Steering Committee of the Free Shaka Shakur Campaign, works as Organizational Relations Director at the Indianapolis Liberation Center, and organizes with the ANSWER Coalition. He co-hosts the 'Naptown People's Radio' podcast, which covers pressing issues facing Indianapolis residents.

His academic work is complemented by significant public scholarship, with articles appearing in Black Agenda Report, Monthly Review, Peace, Land, and Bread, and other progressive outlets. Ford's scholarship has been translated into multiple languages including Turkish, Spanish, Portuguese, Korean, Chinese, and Japanese, reflecting the international relevance of his work.