Attitudes, Handles, and Methods: Developing Discussion in History Classes

Authors

  • Judith Abbott Sonoma State University Author

Abstract

History survey students are, for the most part, unequipped for lively discussion or even for thinking about history. However, some simple pedagogy can draw students into active thought and discussion. The key is to provide a handle on history--a way to think about it--and to create a safe atmosphere in which to speak. More important, the teacher must be direct with and respectful toward students, because this clears the classroom of anxiety and of agendas extraneous to learning. The author discusses her classroom experiences in developing the attitudes, handles, and methods for stimulating discussion about history.

Published

2024-03-22