Call for Chapters: Teaching about Controversial Topics
As families with differing political views sit down to holiday meals, many will be avoiding certain subjects to keep conversations pleasant. Following that rule in the classroom is a huge mistake, according to two Delaware Valley University faculty members. Dr. David D. Timony, chair of education, and Dr. Craig Stutman, assistant professor of history, policy and society are co-editing a new book to help teachers talk about difficult topics. The team is seeking chapter submissions from educators for the new text.
“Especially now, with the nation so divided, it’s important for educators to address controversial topics, even when the temptation is to shy away from them,” said Dr. Stutman. “Controversial topics absolutely belong in the classroom. The book will help teachers improve the learning experience for a diverse group of students. We’re creating this book so that classes are talking about the issues that have a real impact on students’ lives.”
The working title of the upcoming book is “Teaching with Controversial Topics: A Theoretical and Practical Guide for Educators.” Dr. Timony and Dr. Stutman are currently discussing the book with publishers.
The idea for the text grew out of a conference presentation. Dr. Timony and Dr. Stutman presented "The Necessity of Controversy in the Classroom" at the 2017 Critical Questions in Education conference. While preparing for the conference, Dr. Timony noticed that there were no practical resources designed to prepare pre-service and in-service teachers to talk about controversial topics with students.
“This book is going to fill an important need for teachers,” said Dr. Timony. “We’re shaping the next generation of leaders every day in the classroom. It’s our responsibility to teach students with differing viewpoints how to engage in civil dialogue.”
Submit a Chapter:
Educators are invited to submit chapters for consideration for the upcoming textbook. The submission deadline is Dec. 8, 2017. For chapter submission guidelines, please visit: delval.edu/controversy. Submissions will undergo a blind peer review.