- Volume 7, Issue 2, 1998

Offers an overview of what it means to educate for a democratic life in the elementary school. Discusses three guiding questions: How can educators work together so that everyone benefits?; What is already known about the democratic process and what else should educators find out?; and Is everyone included in trying to solve this problem?

Describes how one first-grade teacher makes democracy happen in her classroom. Describes the teacher’s role in setting up and supporting a democratic classroom where students and teacher work together to make decisions about the learning that goes on in the class, and in determining a supportive physical environment with materials available to all members of the community.

Describes how a democratic classroom and flexible grouping benefit students who arrive “at risk.” Illustrates how acting on these ideas has put an end to labeling in the author’s first-grade classroom. Describes how many current classroom practices are pervasively autocratic rather than democratic. Discusses district and community support, and management of a democratic classroom.

Shares observations made and lessons learned by the author while student teaching in a democratic classroom environment. Outlines keys to creating a democratic classroom. Discusses preparing teachers for democratic classrooms.

Describes a fourth/fifth-grade classroom in which students make decisions and enjoy school because they are invested in their own learning. Describes how the ability to think autonomously and solve problems is fostered in students by developing a sense of community. Describes how the student-planned social studies curriculum was more extensive than the district curriculum.

Discusses the articles in this special issue on classrooms that are democratic communities. Outlines a democratic classroom model and then discusses that paradigm in practice. Offers a list of selected readings and resources, containing 53 professional readings, six professional resources, and 38 books suggested by members of the author team.