Beyond Basic Skills: Fostering Student Well-Being Through Moral Instruction, Civic Education, Purpose Learning, and Indigenous Epistemologies

Session Type: Symposium

Abstract

Many educational philosophies emphasize human development beyond the acquisition of knowledge and skills. In response to the narrow focus on content standards that has dominated recent educational policies, the U.S. has recently seen a remarkable proliferation of philosophies and practices that focus on comprehensive student well-being. Amidst this bewildering array of heterogeneous approaches, we need a clearer view of what learning outcomes should guide our educational endeavors today. How can we make sense of the various movements such that scholars, policymakers and educators can adopt thoughtful, effective approaches to developing whole students beyond just basic skills? This panel explores the assumptions behind and prospects for these movements, bringing together experts on moral education, civic values, purpose, and indigenous education.

Sub Unit

• SIG-Adolescence and Youth Development

Chair

• Stanton E F Wortham, Boston College

Papers

• Indigenous Education - Bryan McKinley Jones Brayboy, Arizona State University

• Civic Education - Diana E. Hess, University of Wisconsin - Madison

• Education for Purpose - William Damon, Stanford University

• Moral Character Education - Darcia F. Narvaez, University of Notre Dame