Teaching Toward Democracy: Educators as Agents of Change

Description

"Teaching Toward Democracy" examines the contested space of schooling and school reform with a focus on the unique challenges and opportunities that teaching in a democratic society provides. Teaching in and for democracy involves developing particular qualities of mind that teachers explore and work to develop as they become more effective educators. Some chapters open with familiar experiences in the lives of teachers in schools (working with parents and communities, or dealing with classroom discipline and management) and illuminate that commonplace in new, helpful, and sometimes startling, ways. Other chapters present possible interventions any teacher might make in any classroom for example, using the arts as an organizing center and metaphor for teaching more generally, or rethinking the press of politics on our every day practice. This book foregrounds the central idea that democratic ideals are a necessary starting point and context in which to enact our teaching here and now."

"Clear, practical, and theoretically grounded, this book provides a solid foundation for understanding that transformation of the classroom and transformation of social relations outside of school are inseparable. Highly recommended." -CHOICE "Teaching Toward Democracy challenges our core beliefs on today's pressing issues both inside our public schools and beyond them, too. The book is a must read for teachers, parents, policymakers, university faculty and their students." -Deborah Meier, New York University *Praise for The Teacher's Toolkit* "This series renders complex ideas not only intelligible, but also meaningful. The authors brilliantly weave together theory and research, vision, and vivid examples. Teacher-readers will find themselves respected as intellectuals, and empowered as leaders." -Christine Sleeter, California State University-Monterey Bay "Books about teaching seldom combine theory, research, practice, and inspiration, but that is precisely what The Teacher's Toolkit series does. Seasoned educators and researchers explore the profession of teaching through social justice and efficacy. University faculty, their students, and new teachers will cherish these books, while veteran teachers will develop new insights from them." -Sonia Nieto, University of Massachusetts, Amherst "When we reflect on our careers, we undoubtedly ask whether the choices we made were the best for bringing about a new society. Here is a collection of theoretically cohesive books, all of them integrating research and heart felt understanding. The books carry the polyphonic voices of the individual volumes, and most importantly, they are in sync in purpose, in passion, and in thoughtfulness about how to make our world a better place for all children." -Maria E. Torres-Guzman, Teachers College, Columbia University "The concerns of twenty-first-century teachers are significant, varied, and urgent. Addressing them as part of professional socialization and further professional development has never been more important. The Teacher's Toolkit does just that. Using powerful tools of inquiry, narrative, critical reflection, and analysis, these books help new and experienced teachers to achieve balance and perspective in their professional and personal lives." -Susan Florio-Ruane, Michigan State University