Skip to Main Content

BRI’s Bobb Talks Civil Discourse, Viewpoint Diversity at SXSW EDU

AS
by Ally Silva on

<p>“The restoration of civil discourse in our classrooms is one of our most important goals.”</p>

<p>That’s what Bill of Rights Institute President and CEO David Bobb told a packed conference session at the recent SXSW EDU in Austin, TX.&nbsp;</p>

<p>SXSW EDU is considered one of the world’s most important education events. It draws thousands of attendees who converge on Texas each year for engaging discussions on the future of education.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bobb was joined by Facing History &amp; Ourselves President and CEO Desmond Blackburn, and Lorén Cox, Policy Director for the Aspen Institute’s Education and Society Program, for a session titled Teaching Patriotism &amp; Pluralism Through U.S. Civics &amp; History.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The speakers discussed how to manage difficult classroom conversations, the importance of exposing students to diverse viewpoints, and even different interpretations of patriotism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bobb discussed the Bill of Rights Institute’s work with <a href="https://www.educatingforamericandemocracy.org/">Educating for American Democracy,</a> a diverse and cross-ideological group of scholars and educators that collaborated to produce a roadmap for civics and history education. </p>

<p>He also reflected on BRI’s approach of using primary sources to educate students and help them develop critical thinking skills. Bobb demonstrated a playlist created by BRI to teach students about the <a href="https://billofrightsinstitute.org/playlists/peacefultransitions">peaceful transition of power between presidential administrations</a>. </p>

<p>For Bobb, teaching students to think critically and engage productively, even with people they disagree with, is important in building civil society. Even America’s Founders understood the need for healthy disagreement in a democracy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The Constitution is a means for managing disagreement,” he said. “It doesn’t eliminate it.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>To learn more about SXSW EDU, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sxswedu.com/">https://www.sxswedu.com/</a></p>