Navigating Discourse through Controversy in the Classroom

Authors

  • John Scott The University of Toledo

Keywords:

controversy in the classroom, working with students, class discussion strategies, differing opinions

Abstract

Social studies is an evolving subject that encompasses controversial issues including abortion, gun control, substance legalization, LGBTQ, civil rights issues, and more. To elevate discourse, teachers have a myriad of ways to elicit thought-provoking discussions among students. Strategies for discussing controversial issues include creating a positive environment where students do not feel judged for expressing their views, cooperative learning, reciprocal teaching, debate, and discussion. Cooperative learning forces individuals to respect the viewpoint and work habits of classmates. Debate and discussion are also effective discourse methods because students must accurately represent positions on issues. This is done through research of reputable sources guided by teacher instruction and moderation to facilitate an inclusive and productive discussion. Instruction and moderation are demonstrated below.

References

Lintner, T. (2017, November 30). The controversy over controversy in the Social Studies Classroom. SRATE Journal. https://eric.ed.gov/?id=EJ1166700

Pace, J. L. (2022, December 19). Learning to teach controversial issues: A path forward. Learning Forward. https://learningforward.org/journal/teaching-in-turbulent-times/learning-to-teach-controversial-issues-a-path-forward/

Indiana University. (2023). Managing difficult classroom discussions. Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning. https://citl.indiana.edu/teaching-resources/diversity-inclusion/managing-difficult-classroom-discussions/index.html

Resource guide: Strategies for student discourse - New Mexico public ... (2022). https://webnew.ped.state.nm.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Strategies-for-the-Discourse-Guide-for-Social-Studies.pdf

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Uygun, K., & Arslan, I. E. (2020). Students’ opinions about teaching of the controversial topics in the social studies classes. International Journal of Evaluation and Research in Education (IJERE), 9(2), 335–340. https://doi.org/10.11591/ijere.v9i2.20446

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Published

2023-12-15

How to Cite

Scott, J. (2023). Navigating Discourse through Controversy in the Classroom . Learning to Teach Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies Through Research and Practice, 12(1). Retrieved from https://openjournals.utoledo.edu/index.php/learningtoteach/article/view/809