Learning to Talk/Talking to Learn: Teaching Critical Dialogue.

Abstract

Critical dialogue skills are a beneficial tool for reflective educational practice. Pre-service teachers can learn to examine underlying biases and assumptions that influence many important aspects of educational practice. Critical dialogue skills are thus of particular importance for work with diverse students and their families. This paper outlines procedures and practices instructors can use to teach critical dialogue skills to preservice teachers. The challenges and pitfalls involved in teaching critical dialogue are discussed. A four-step process, based on the author’s research, is explained in detail. Finally, important recommendations for those interested in teaching critical dialogue are outlined. Additional resources and a group evaluation checklist are included at the end of the document.