Routledge Teaching for Democracy in an Age of Economic Disparity

Teaching for Democracy in an Age of Economic Disparity addresses the intersections between democratic education and economic inequality in American society. Drawing upon well-established theoretical constructs in the literature on democratic citizenship as well as recent events, this volume outlines the ways in which students can not only be educated about democracy, but become actively engaged in the social issues of their time. The collection begins with an examination of how the confluence of capitalism and education have problematized the current model of democratic education, before transitioning into discussions of how teachers can confront economic disparity both economically and civically in the classroom. The authors then introduce a variety of ways in which teachers can engage and empower students’ civic action at all grade levels. As a final component, the volume explores new avenues for civic action, including the use of social media for democratic engagement in schools and opportunities for critical reflection and cross-cultural dialogue. This book is a valuable resource for both scholars interested in the research on democratic education and practicing teachers wishing to turn their students into critical, active citizens. Review “To be concerned with democratic education today is to be focused directly on economic inequality. This book is groundbreaking because it brings the two into a single frame.” –Walter Parker, Professor of Social Studies and, by courtesy, Political Science, University of Washington, Seattle “This book boldly tackles crucial problems in U.S. education and society, especially considering the current state of inequality. It explains how and why we need to utilize new approaches to democracy education, for marginalized students in particular, with the intent of strengthening democracy for all. The chapters offer compelling explications of research, practice, and ideology. With its focus on economics, the book makes a critical contribution to scholarship on democratic education." –Judith L. Pace, Professor of Teacher Education, University of San Francisco About the Author Cory Wright-Maley is Assistant Professor of Education at St. Mary’s University, where he teaches elementary curriculum, instruction, and assessment, specializing in social studies education. Trent Davis is Associate Professor of Education at St. Mary’s University, where he teaches the philosophical and historical foundations of education.