In this article, I draw on the ethnographic study of a Universal Pre-Kindergarten class to theorize the functional appeal of conflict that permeates young children's interactions. From a conflict theory perspective, I document how young children negotiate meaning in and with their world as they engage in learning through conflict. While…

Links pedagogical theory and practice through a description of teaching-research activities and critical pedagogy in a southern inner-city elementary school classroom, focusing especially on African American students. Recommendations are made for teaching and using critical pedagogy in the schools. (SLD)