Noddings’ “Critical Lessons” May be Particularly Critical at the Elementary Level

Abstract

This article explores Nel Noddings’ conception of pedagogical neutrality and its meanings and implications for classroom conversations, particularly at the elementary grade levels. It examines the selection of issues for classroom discourse and the importance of teachers purposefully exposing students to arguments and data with which they may be less familiar, especially in more polarized settings. The piece also discusses the extent to which younger students can grapple with controversial issues, and the arguments for and against elementary teachers sharing their views with their students. The piece concludes with examples of, and guidelines for, facilitating effective discussions of controversial issues at the primary and intermediate elementary levels.