Positive political discourse is the heart of democracy. The purposes of political discourse include making an effective decision about the course the society should take and building a moral bond among all members of the society. A responsibility of social sciences within a democratic society is to provide the theory, research, and normative…

Although intellectual conflict may be an important instructional tool (because of its potential constructive outcomes), conflict is rarely structured in instructional situations (because of its potential destructive outcomes). Many educators may be apprehensive about instigating intellectual conflict among students because of the lack of…

Peace education is a key for establishing and maintaining a consensual peace. Creating an effective peace education program involves five steps. First, a public education system must be established with compulsory attendance; all children and youth should attend so that students from the previously conflicting groups interact and have the…

Argues that all students be taught how to negotiate and mediate and learn the role of the mediator. Three steps in managing conflicts are examined: establishing a cooperative context; creating intellectual conflicts; and establishing a peer-mediation program. The theory and research underlying these steps are reviewed. (GLR)

Peace education is a key for establishing a consensual peace and maintaining it over time. There are 5 essential elements in building a lasting peace through education. First, a public education system must be established that has compulsory attendance for all children and youth, integrated so students from previously conflicting groups interact…

Describes the principles, practices, and procedures of the Teaching Students To Be Peacemakers program, a comprehensive, schoolwide conflict resolution and peer mediation training initiative targeting grades 1 through 12. Findings of the program's efficacy and impact in diverse school settings are presented. (GR)