Social studies and history teachers should be free to expose students to controversial ideas and to teach critical thinking skills. But are they free? Do they have the constitutional right--call it academic freedom--to teach what they want and to discuss controversial issues in the classroom? The short answer is "no." In this article,…

This book provides a history of the U.S. tradition of academic freedom, peer review, and shared governance in higher education as a background to a discussion of academic ethics. The book also contains a selection of ethical problems for peer discussion. The chapters are: (1) "Introduction"; (2) "The American Academic Profession: The Tradition of…

Examines four cases decided in circuit courts regarding teachers' academic freedom. Cited in all these decisions was "Kuhlmeier," a case involving the lawful restriction of student speech. Contends that some of the language in the opinions could stimulate governing boards to try to intrude upon the professional judgment of teachers. (42…

Reviews the controversy of teaching evolution and creationism in public schools from the early years of the twentieth century until today. Identifies two stages of the legal challenges to the teaching of evolution. Contends that academic freedom issues may provide another avenue to the Supreme Court for those supporting creationism. (CFR)

Reviews court rulings on academic sovereignty, discrimination and equal protection, and contractual relationships between students and schools. Offers guidance to help faculty prepare for student legal pressures by clarifying the roles of the student and the college. (DMM)

Warns that higher education, particularly in the humanities, has become politicized. Argues that restrictions on the freedom of speech of professors and students in the name of feminist and antiracist ideologies are one-sided examples of "political correctness." Contends that the humanities are diminished by such politicalization and…

This document was prepared to inform teachers about their academic freedom rights and to assist teachers who are confronted with a potential academic freedom issue. It provides (1) an essay which outlines the issues, (2) a list of significant decisions of the U.S. Courts of Appeals and their implications, (3) steps to follow when academic freedom…

Examines two related issues: the right of teachers to select instructional materials and to select instructional methods. Court decisions indicate that materials and methods must have educational value, relevance, and suitability to the age and maturity of the students. Prior administrative approval, while not necessarily required, is beneficial.…

It is important that teachers and administrators have at least a rudimentary knowledge and understanding of school law and how it affects their day-to-day classroom activities, since the courts have played an increasingly significant role in defining school policy. Decisions in school desegregation, prayer, public school financing, student rights,…

A 6-8 day secondary level social studies unit explores censorship in education through a variety of activities. Students participate in a preassessment poll measuring their opinions on academic freedom, answer a questionnaire entitled "What do you think?" concerning local school board and community powers, rank a list of possible teacher…

This book is about teachers and the laws that affect them. New to this sixth edition are new court cases and a chapter that highlights likely controversies in the coming years, including school choice, high-stakes testing, control of the Internet, and gang clothing. The book is divided into two parts. Part I, "The Legal Aspects of Teaching,"…

Reprints two statements of the Academic Freedom Committee of the National Council for the Social Students on academic freedom and professional standards in social studies education. Stresses the rights and responsibilities of teachers, students, and administrators to protect the freedom to teach and learn in a democratic spirit of inquiry. (CH)

This curriculum guide presents a context for preservice education and/or professional development in education law for teachers. Section 1, "Teacher Liability," discusses "Duty to Supervise,""Providing Reasonable Care,""Duty,""Preventing Student-to-Student Sexual Harassment,""Reporting Child…