Using Design-based Research to Reenvision Structured Academic Controversies for Just Civic Engagement

• In Event: Rethinking Civic Engagement and Education: Identities, Controversies, and Critical Citizenship

Abstract

The Structured Academic Controversy (SAC) is a well-established feature of classrooms. There are crititques with this format, namely, how it frames power and choice and how it supports participation. In this paper, we share data from the first round of a DBR project that examines new modifications that specifically address moving away from the binary, promote listening, and frame critiques of the power. Pre-service teachers from a methods class for secondary social studies participated in the SAC. Using recordings from class, student work, and an interview with a participant, we hope to discuss how the students encountered these modifications, the results of their works, and next steps in hopes of continuing investigation into this popular strategy.

Authors

• Jesus Tirado, Auburn University

• Sara B. Demoiny, Auburn University