A Controversial Topic Encourages College Students' Dialogue and Critical Thinking for a Democratic Society

• In Event: 61.071 - Sheraton Roundtable Session 10 - Grand Centre
  In Roundtable Session: 61.071-10 - Moral Education: From Early Childhood to College Years

Abstract

Freshmen (6) in a multi-cultural college communications course were chosen randomly to participate in a 3-month semester study. Students were asked to read a novel and pro and con articles on capital punishment. A pretest and posttest were given at semester’s beginning and end asking students’ opinions on this issue. Student opinions in small group discussion were recorded. Verbal and written dialogue was coded through analytic deduction. Student responses were tabulated and categorized independently by the researcher and her assistant. Students’ oral and written responses increased during the study. Through critical dialogue 3 out of 6 students moderated or changed their opinions. Controversial issues appeared to support an increase in student communication and stimulate ethical consideration and critical thinking.

Author

• Bettina P. Murray, John Jay College of Criminal Justice