PF-Teaching with Current Events: Fostering Civil Discourse: Navigating Difficult Conversations

Teaching with Current Events

Series Overview: Facing History and Ourselvesis a nonprofit educational and professional development organization that provides curricula resources and training that empower teachers to engage students of diverse backgrounds in an examination of racism, prejudice, human rights, and civic participation. This year, the Literacy Assistance Center will work with Facing History and Ourselves to offer a four-part series introducing Facing History’s approach to pedagogy, and to equip teachers with the tools and strategies they need to help students become thoughtful, responsible citizens.

Session 2: Fostering Civil Discourse: Navigating Difficult Conversations

Description: How can you create a safe and reflective classroom where students learn to exchange ideas and listen respectfully to each other? In the current political divisive climate in the United States, the Charlottesville white nationalist rally, and ongoing issues related to race, justice, and policing, educators are rightly concerned about the lessons that today’s students might be absorbing. Educators have an essential role to play in creating classrooms where students learn to listen respectfully to different opinions and experiences, try out ideas and positions, and give—and get—constructive feedback without fear or intimidation.

In this workshop Facing History will model teaching strategies designed to help you navigate and engage in difficult conversations and support your students to develop effective skills for civic discourse.