In this episode, we talked with William Shields about Civic Education and its importance in education. William is an 8th-grade US History and 9th-grade American Institutions and Issues Teacher. Interestingly, his American Institutions and Issues classroom was inspired by his students. William is a big proponent of teaching Civic Education. This cross-curriculum content can be part of any subject, such as assessing water conservation in science class. Civic Education investigates the government and political systems, programs, and beliefs. It gives teachers and students a better understanding of how to participate effectively in society - “Learn how to disagree better.” Apart from teaching civic education, William believes in the power of bringing in legislators, senators, mayors, and more into the classroom so they can truly see how a classroom functions. This also allows the student to be part of the societal web on which Civics Education is based. Listen to William talk about how teachers can incorporate Civics Education into their curriculum and how he balances the demands of his personal positions and responsibilities as an educator. William states, "It's my job to educate and not persuade."
Layout:
Beginning 6 Minutes - Introductions, William explains what the American Institutions and Issues Class and John Arthur’s Info Drop
The Next 15 Minutes - The Heart of the Conversation
The last 4 Minutes - Reflection, Takeaways, and Wrap-up
Guest on Episode:
William Shields (@TheMrShields) -- History Teacher, Jordan School District
Resources from the episode:
Go to le.utah.gov to find more information on who your legislator is and to learn more about different bills in sessions.