Social Justice Views and Voices: Lessons From Youth in Grades 3–12

• In Event: 60.082 - Lessons Learned From Preservice and In-Service Teachers and Programs

Abstract

In our ongoing quest to discover strategies to promote a social justice agenda within urban school systems and to help educators understand their role in this process, we believe it is essential to give voice to those affected by the policies and practices we employ. Scholars have identified the need to honor student voice for myriad reasons—from curriculum development to school reform. We asked students to think deeply about their personal convictions and reflect on their experiences as they develop their ideas around the concept of social justice. We asked students in grades 3-12 to identify examples of social justice in their own lives. Findings suggest that youth understand very clearly issues related to equity and fairness.

Authors

• Shirley Marie McCarther, University of Missouri - Kansas City

• Donna Marie Davis