Discussions and Democracy

Discussions and Democracy: Motivation, Growth, and the New Social Studies Classroom is written in a vernacular that will springboard and support teachers? understandings of implementing discussion-based approaches in their classrooms. Moreover, Discussions and Democracy drills down more deeply into student motivation and engagement. This is braided through a detailed and easy-to-understand explanation of both self-determination and self-efficacy. Understanding the principles of motivation in the teaching and learning process is essential to effective pedagogy. Discussions and Democracy is written by an author with nearly two decades of experience in the classroom ? both as a teacher and as a teacher educator. This book can serve the needs of both new and experienced teachers interested in applying new methods of instruction to their already existing practice. The aim throughout is to bring important concepts and theories out of the ?ivory tower? and onto the hard ground of real-world experience as a guide for today?s social studies teachers.

Dr. Dague?s new book, Discussions and Democracy does what many volumes fail to do?it articulates a coherent, practical vision of why a discussion pedagogy is the path forward in social studies. He covers the history and theoretical underpinnings of discussion pedagogy, as well as the gap between what we say about social studies and how our words and intentions play out in classrooms. In our times, more of the same isn?t what we need. We need to learn, once again, how to discuss the world(s) in which we live, and this needs to be a central focus of our schools. This is the book that we need?right now. It is sure to become a necessary resource for teachers and teacher educators, theorists, and practitioners alike.