Discussion and Democracy: Motivation, Growth and the New Social Studies Classroom

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. Christopher Dague, a former high school social studies teacher and head baseball coach, has melded his past experience in education and motivational theory with his present expertise in curriculum and instruction. The author of numerous peer-reviewed articles and invited essays in the field, he currently serves as associate professor of teacher and social studies education at The Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina.