ABSTRACT
Responsible citizenship in a democratic society involves the ability to listen and communicate with individuals whose viewpoints are diverse. Incorporation of diverse perspectives and open discussions can bring about a variety of responses in students, including anger, resentment, detachment, anxiety, curiosity, excitement, and epiphany. Two models in education that give theoretical support for building trust, promoting community, and increasing opportunities for multiple viewpoints in classrooms are the learning-communities approach and Integrated Thematic Instruction. Another educational model, Highly Effective Teaching (formerly known as Integrated Thematic Instruction), focuses on the development of responsible citizens who can function in a democratic society that realizes the importance of working with diverse people. As facilitators of learning, instructors are challenged daily to call upon characteristics and strengths within themselves, from their own “professional training, intellect, courage, responsiveness, determination, flexibility and faith in the very idea that people can grow and develop”.
