Brookfield (1987) proposes that political learning happens experientially. It is about developing the critical awareness of how hierarchies of power and status infuse all personal and group relations. It concerns developing the critical eye that can see patterns of domination and submission as cultural norms of meaning making and social relationships. It involves making explicit those implicit assumptions that connect people and change.
Engaging students in a politically controversial issue might be approached using an engaging video webcast. TED Talks can be found on a variety of topics and can stimulate students to think about social justice issues in policy development. For example, Majora Carter discusses environmental justice and the Greening of the Ghetto.
Constructing a Policy Assignment – In groups or individually:
© Focus Initiative/UAO • Illinois State University, Campus Box 2500 • Normal, IL 61790-2500 • Phone: (309) 438-2135 •
