For educators, it is imperative to be aware of the effects of racism and to learn how to teach about them to students. The Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture NMAAHC's signature workshop, "Let's Talk!", is designed to give educators tools--historical understanding, racial literacy, and pedagogical…

Censorship is a complex question. Studies show a number of reasons teachers refrain from teaching controversial issues. These include: (1) The general "chilling effects" in school and community contexts, characterized by fear of reprisal; (2) Standards and high stakes testing; (3) Insufficient teacher preparation to teach about…

The results of a recent survey of educators on controversies over materials and topics, solutions of controversies, sources of pressure to avoid controversial materials and topics, and climate for innovation are presented. (Author/DE)

Many teachers advocate teaching students to deliberate on controversial political issues as a powerful way of preparing them for political participation. Support for this approach recently came from a Civic Mission of the Schools report, which endorsed including political controversies in the curriculum. Specifically, it recommends that schools:…

Presents opinions of teachers and administrators in Arlington, Virginia, regarding discipline: (1) most students want to perform well and respond favorably to reasonable, competent teachers; (2) no specific discipline techniques will work with all students; (3) subject matter, teacher attitude, and educational environment affect classroom…

Discusses the classroom practice of Geri Collins who is a veteran eighth grade social studies teacher. Explains how, through her teaching, she attempts to break down the wall her students have around them. Highlights the four characteristics that make her teaching an example of wise practice. (CMK)

Offers suggestions to junior high school teachers regarding discipline policy. Suggestions are: explain basic rules during the first weeks of school; vary teaching techniques to avoid boredom; deal with discipline problems as they arise; and demonstrate personal interest in students whenever possible. (Author/DB)

Presents the reflections of a social studies teacher from New York City about the September 11, 2001, attacks and the days following it. Focuses on her personal experiences during that time period and the response of the school where she taught. (CMK)

The importance of maps and other graphic representations has become more important to geography and geographers. This is due to the development and widespread diffusion of geographic (spatial) technologies. As computers and silicon chips have become more capable and less expensive, geographic information systems (GIS), global positioning satellite…

Addresses some of the problems facing the educational system of Hungary as it moves from a Marxist perspective to a system attempting to inculcate democratic principles. Most Hungarians are optimistic although the old system was entrenched and enforced for many years. Includes comments from many citizens. (MJP)