Social Justice Re-Examined

Teachers want to do their best for every child. But research shows that as diversities in the classroom proliferate, they are worried about dealing with values issues lest they cause offence or appear insensitive to difference. The answers to the complex situations that arise nowadays as a result of diversity are seldom straightforward. This book offers honest discussions about what are seen as difficult or controversial issues. Social Justice Re-Examinedprovides ideas and approaches for the classroom and helps teachers negotiate their way through concepts and value differences, so they can help bring about constructive change. Theoretical as well as practical, the book looks from inside out from the perspective of the teacher. Many of the chapters are written by teachers and each features key questions and suggested readings. Chapters such as "Not much I can do he's got ADHD" or "I'm not homophobic but I find this area difficult" encourage teachers to model for their pupils the ways in which to think and learn. The book is essential reading for student teachers, beginning teachers and teacher trainers but will be invaluable for experienced teachers too, as they navigate their work in a constantly diversifying society.

Rowena Arshad is Head of the Institute for Education, Community and Society at Moray House, University of Edinburgh, where Lynne Pratt is Programme Director PGDE Secondary and Lecturer in Language Studies. Terry Wrigley is Visiting Professor at Leeds Metropolitan University.