The Benefit of an Open Classroom Climate: Strategies for Teachers to Enhance Students’ Civic Knowledge

The Benefit of an Open Classroom Climate: Strategies for Teachers to Enhance Students’ Civic Knowledge

An open classroom climate is a space that allows students to discuss social and political issues and express their opinions openly. Findings from the International Civic and Citizenship Study (ICCS) 2016 show that eighth-grade students' perceptions of classroom openness in classroom discussion are positively associated with their civic knowledge and interest in issues. Teachers can play a central role in building open classroom climates to aid student learning. Read Snippet number three for strategies on enhancing students' exposure to conflicting views and achieving an open classroom climate.