Creating a Democratic Classroom What Does it Mean to Teach for Democracy?

1. Creating a Democratic ClassroomWhat Does it Mean to Teach for Democracy?

2. What is Citizenship in a Democracy?

3. John Dewey • Dewey’s overarching purpose of education was to cultivate citizens for a democracy that could think critically, ask questions, and realize that they do not exist alone but are part of a society of that is an “organic union of individuals.” (My Pedagogic Creed, p 631). • The purpose of school was to gradually introduce students to democratic life through simplified social situations. • To create knowledgeable, active citizens who can think critically, ask questions, work collaboratively and see the consequences of their actions • Social Justice

4. So…How do we teach democracy? • Begin with students’ own lived experiences and move toward fostering a critical perspective and action directed toward social change (Adams, et al, 1997). • “Develop democratic capacities: to question, to challenge, to make real decisions, and to collectively solve problems” (Bigelow, Christiansen, Karp, Miner, & Peterson, 1994, p. 4). Critique: question the status quo, examine underlying values and assumptions, and explore their own role in relation to social problems. Analyzing roots of inequality in the curriculum, the school, and society. • Obstacles: not available in textbooks, arise out of classroom or community needs, take advantage of teachable moments, ways to connect school and community, go out of content coverage and typical social studies subjects