ABSTRACT

This chapter explores the unique power of geography to advance social justice aims within the broader project of citizenship education and what John Dewey described as "creative democracy." It begins with an introduction to education for social justice and then an explanation of the importance of local geography in the curriculum. The chapter demonstrates that students can engage in authentic intellectual work that has meaning beyond the classroom. With planning, teachers can promote collaborative, community maps as a powerful tool to promote spatial citizenship for all students. The workshop focused on geography as a tool to rediscover the local community. Fieldwork in geography education has long been imbued with the larger aims of moral and civic development. Rediscovering the local requires a savvy teacher like Mrs. Washington who creatively and strategically brings local geography into the curriculum. The chapter concludes with suggestions and resources for geography educators who seek to promote spatial citizenship.