How do I teach controversial topics such as evolution, global warming, etc.?
Inquiry and discovery teaching sometimes involve controversial issues. Since controversial issues are by definition controversial, teachers should treat them as open-ended, fair, and try to see it that all sides of any issue studied are properly reported. It is not the purpose of classroom instruction to solve controversial issues, but rather to give students an opportunity to become aquatinted with the issues, and the arguments supporting the different points of view. Dealing with controversy in the classroom gives the students a chance to learn how to deal with conflict as objectively and wisely as possible. In teaching controversial material, the emphasis should not be so much on the content as on the process. Strategies to use when dealing with controversial issues: Debate Panel Discussion Role playing Interviews Simulation Research techniques Return to main page.
