Political discord in the United States has heightened debates over the role of educators in addressing controversial issues. As misinformation spreads and uncivil discourse rises, schools are critical spaces for fostering informed, respectful discussions. While teachers see value in including controversial issues, multiple barriers often prohibit teachers from doing so in practice. Following President Trump’s first election in 2016, educators reported increased student hostility and incivility.
Now, after a divisive campaign and Trumps second election, Dr. William J. McConnell, Batten Associate Professor of Education at Virginia Wesleyan University, examines how aspiring teachers in the U.S. perceive addressing controversial topics amid today’s polarized climate. His study presented explores preservice teachers’ beliefs about the importance of these discussions, their confidence in facilitating them, and the barriers they foresee. International dialogue is encouraged to offer comparative perspectives on the challenges and opportunities of political discourse in education.
The lecture will take place on Tuesday, 20.05.25 between 18:15 and 19:15 in H.002 (Im Neuenheimer Feld 560, D-69120 Heidelberg). The event is part of the university's ESD lecture series. McConnell is currently a guest at the Institute of Geography and Geocommunication as part of the International Fellowship Program; the Fellowship Program is coordinated by the International Office.