“If our purpose is to have students mimic our lessons back to us, then teachers barely are needed in the classroom–computers can do just as well.  If, however, we intend for our students to understand the material in a meaningful way, we must build on their current level of understanding.  The best way to do this is to bring students into a conversation–allow them to develop and express their own views; encourage them to create internal concepts that really reflect an understanding of the material in terms that they can integrate into their own world scheme.  This only can be done by providing an opportunity for discussion.

“To sum up, teaching that prepares students to live in a democratic society must be democratic.  It must respect the uniqueness and individuality of each student.  It must provide a broad enough understanding of the principles that underlie all knowledge to prepare them for the uncertainty that life provides.  It must impart the essential skill of collaborating with others toward common understanding and goals.  Only then will students be prepared to continue their education and lives as citizens in a democracy.”