Final answer:
Paulo Freire argued that dominant models of education act as instruments of cultural oppression, where traditional education systems perpetuate the interests of the ruling class and limit critical thinking among students.
Step-by-step explanation:
Paulo Freire criticized traditional education systems, viewing them as methods of cultural oppression. He posited that education often serves the interests of the ruling class by perpetuating existing social structures and limiting critical consciousness. According to Freire, the role of education should be to empower individuals to question and deconstruct societal norms, leading to a more emancipated and critical society. In doing so, he highlighted the need for an education that promotes authentic communication between teachers and students, encouraging learners to interrogate the foundational aspects of society and recognize the mechanisms of hegemony.
Considering Freire's contributions to critical pedagogy, it becomes evident that dominant models of education can act as tools for maintaining power dynamics and suppressing the potential for critical thought among students, particularly those from postcolonized societies. The goal of such an education, therefore, would be to challenge the status quo and promote emancipation from the traditional colonialism and hegemony entrenched in educational structures.