2024 Annual Conference for Teachers in Civics, Law, and Government
The Constitutional Democracy Project’s Professional Development Conference for Teachers in Civics, Law, and Government is a one-of-a-kind working conference that brings together teachers, professors, lawyers, judges, civic leaders, cultural institution scholars, civic education specialists, and others to highlight best practices for teaching young people awareness of the law, the legal system, and their rights and responsibilities as engaged citizens.
This year’s Annual Conference for Teachers in Civics, Law, and Government will focus on the theme of “Navigating Controversy: Empowering Educators in Challenging Times.” The keynote speaker for this event is Dr. Diana Hess, former Dean of the University of Wisconsin's school of education and the leader of The Discussion Project, which has, since its founding in 2017, provided intensive professional development on how to create more engaging and inclusive classroom discussions.
Join us for this year's professional development conference, designed to equip middle and high school teachers with the tools and strategies needed to effectively teach controversial subjects in today's polarized environment. Through workshops on landmark and recent Supreme Court cases, examinations of historical controversies, and discussions on the legal frameworks underpinning these issues, you will gain a deeper understanding of how to approach these topics in the classroom. Engage in mock trials, interactive debates, and panel discussions with legal scholars, historians, and experienced educators. Learn best practices for fostering informed and respectful dialogue among students.
Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your skills, share resources, and connect with fellow educators dedicated to navigating and teaching complex, contentious subjects.
There is a $25 registration. A link for payment will be sent upon registration. Invoices can be issued upon request.
When: Friday, November 8, 2024, 8:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
Where: Conviser Law Center, Chicago-Kent College of Law, 565 W. Adams Street, Chicago (1 block west of Union Station)
Who: Middle, High School & Pre-service Teachers
CPDU Credit is Available
Seeking Proposals
The Constitutional Democracy Project (CDP) is inviting proposals for its Annual Conference for Teachers in Civics, Law, and Government on Friday, November 8, 2024.
Presentations should be relevant, address at least one or more best practices as outlined in the IL Civics Course requirement, encourage opportunities for learner participation, and/or demonstrate application to the work of the audience. Extra consideration will be given to proposals that address the theme of the conference, “Navigating Controversy: Empowering Educators in Challenging Times.”
Sessions are 55 minutes long.
Proposals should:
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Feature presenters who are experts or practitioners
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Deliver best practices using approaches for different types of learners
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Incorporate multimedia
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Contain innovative or new ideas
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Stimulate discussion
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Provide meaningful content and take-away materials appropriate to use in the classroom
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Align to one or more of the Illinois Social Science Standards
We are seeking proposals that most closely align to one of these tracks:
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Supreme Court Case Studies
Description: Dive into landmark and recent Supreme Court cases that have shaped our legal and societal landscape. Presenters will explore the implications of these cases, offer strategies for classroom discussion, and provide resources for engaging students in critical analysis. -
Historical Controversies in Context
Description: Examine significant historical events and their lasting impact on society. This track will focus on teaching methods that present multiple perspectives and foster critical thinking about historical controversies. -
Legal Frameworks and Civic Understanding
Description: Enhance your understanding of the legal foundations that underpin controversial issues. This track will cover constitutional principles, the role of government agencies, and the importance of civic education in promoting informed citizenship. -
Interactive Learning and Classroom Strategies
Description: Engage in hands-on sessions designed to provide practical tools for the classroom. Presenters will lead mock trials, interactive debates, and role-playing exercises that bring controversial topics to life for students. -
Best Practices for Teaching Controversial Topics
Description: Learn from seasoned educators about effective methods for fostering respectful dialogue and critical thinking among students. This track will provide strategies for creating an inclusive classroom environment where all viewpoints are considered.
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These tracks can help attract presenters with expertise in various aspects of teaching controversial subjects, ensuring a well-rounded and impactful conference experience.
