The authors present a model to teach about conflict, classification of levels of conflict, interpretation of meanings, evaluation of consequences, and making of inferences about what could happen if everyone practiced cooperation, coalescence, and shared decision making. (Author/AV)

Discusses intervention options that help prevent violence in schools by affecting the school climate. Describes five approaches to improve the school climate: (1) parent and community involvement; (2) character education; (3) violence-prevention and conflict-resolution curricula; (4) peer mediation; and (5) bullying prevention. (CMK)

Social conflict and the roles that parents, teachers, and students play in school-related conflict are discussed. Both general social conflicts, e.g., alcohol abuse, nuclear weapons, as well as school-related conflict, e.g., a student violates a school rule, should be dealt with in social studies classes. (RM)

Examines democracy as a social and political system. Defines democracy as an evolving process that moves toward consensus whereby citizens exercise their sovereignty in government based on values and laws. Identifies two cornerstones of democracy: sovereignty of the people and individual rights. Explores the guardianship role of education in…

Analyzes how schools and social studies teachers can best teach citizenship education to help student involvement. Contends that programs which empower students through participation in classroom and school decision making and through involvement in local government affairs should replace passive seatwork. Describes a Florida State University…