As interest in service-learning increases, there is a concomitant need for a theoretical base for it. Reviews aspects of John Dewey's educational and social philosophy relevant to the development service-learning theory, including learning from experience, reflective thinking, citizenship, community, and democracy. A series of key questions for…

Identifies five specific areas in which John Dewey's writings contribute to service-learning: linking education to experience; democratic community; social service; reflective inquiry; and education for social transformation. Argues that these contributions form the basis of a cultural and political critique and reconceptualized pedagogy aimed at…

Discusses the extent that the emerging communication technological revolution, particularly the Internet, can override the anti-democratic implications of the media marketplace. Shows how corporate control of communication has been removed from communication policy debates. Argues that the new communication technologies are the product of a global…

Only 10% of schools have achieved genuine partnerships with their families and communities. This article summarizes decades of research demonstrating the importance of risk-taking principals, teacher engagement, diverse involvement opportunities, outside facilitators, family-welcoming strategies, learning at home, effective school-home…

Examines the practices in a large public high school where constitutional language and democratic citizenship education--judicious discipline--are introduced into the decision-making processes of the classroom. Data analysis suggests that a considerable number of students felt they possessed a high level of respect and responsibility as a result.…

Highlights challenges, barriers, and successes faced by a teacher educator from the country of Montenegro during implementation of the Step by Step (SBS) program. Presents comparative information about traditional and reformed educational practices in Montenegro. Discusses the pedagogical implications of SBS implementation, and the importance of…

Highlights recent early childhood and community development work in rural Kenyan communities. Presents: (1) a brief history and overview of early childhood care and education; (2) examples from the Mwana Mwende community development project; (3) ways in which early childhood development has mobilized the community; and (4) examples of increasing…

Focus interviews were conducted to assess young children's views about their national identity. Findings indicate that children are aware of social, racial, and cultural differences, but little discussion exists of how this may affect their relationships with others or willingness to engage in civic processes. Responses suggest that children are…

Describes the purpose and structure of this theme issue, which draws on articles from countries where democracy has existed for some time and from countries new to democracy, focusing on culturally relevant applications. Summarizes each of the eight separate articles. Concludes by focusing on educators' responsibility to support and nurture future…

In the last few years, the issue of values has become increasingly important in Canada, especially in schools. Students hold values which they build from their social experiences and families, and educators must decide how to resolve the daily conflict in values that crop up in their schools, in the context of globalization and a greater openness…

With America at war, schools struggle to help students understand cause and effect of conflict. Interviewed in early March, some teachers say they try not to let impressionable adolescents know how they feel about the controversial American policy on use of force in Iraq. Others say that while they present both sides of the issue, it is only right…

Teacher praise can undermine the development of fundamental democratic values. This article presents styles of teacher talk in line with the principles and goals of democratic leadership and interactive teaching. Advocated discourse patterns encourage self-evaluation and self-reflection, enabling students to develop standards for judging their own…

A state-subsidized system allowing low-income families to choose private schooling could fulfill the nation's democratic aspirations. All parents would be empowered to make the kinds of choices enjoyed by wealthier families. The quality and efficiency of education could then approach the levels achieved by other nations. Includes four references.…

Explores the purpose of a university in and for a democracy. Argues that because mass media increase the capacity of dominant groups to impose their beliefs on the populace, teachers must present dissenting views to restore objectivity. Urges colleges to allow courses which focus on how institutions mobilize support for dominant elites of wealth…

Maintains that education should be democratic and develop people's ability to manage their lives. Looks at examples of democratic education in Western European countries. Concentrating on adult education, critiques current educational practices and discusses the relationship between education, cultural democracy, democratization of the work place,…