Here are students' reflections on things for the instructor to KEEP.

-- I really enjoyed the readings and discussions that we had in this class. I felt they were relevant for the course topic. I also like the lesson examples and ideas you gave us -- that we could actually use in our own classrooms one day. I feel like I learned a lot of practical information for my own classroom and teaching strategies. (Student 1)

--The "toxic sludge" (Note: Toxic Sludge is Good for You" is a book I used for this course, but I only chose to use the first few chapters.) readings should be further explored.
The group presentation of Harry Wong's book.
The Individual presentation of the chapters for Social Democracy in the classroom
Keep the relaxed, warm environment that you created. (Student 2)

--Keep "Eye of the Storm" (Eye of the Storm is a PBS video to teach about tolerance, prejudice, and racial diversity) movie. I would love to see the next one, where students talk about the experience when they are adults. The lesson with the tug of war was great. Fun lessons -- great class discussions. (Student 3)

--I think that the field trip to the historical society was a good thing to include with class. I also think all the visual aids and technology used in the class worked well, and was interesting. The activities done in class both individually and in groups were excellent and made sure the class was engaging and not all lecture. (Student 4)

--I think you did a great job introducing important subject areas to the class. Many of the readings were informative and I like ho you broke whole books into sections which were then presented. This alleviated the pressure of having to not only read several books, but buy them (money is tight for some people). The "Eye of the Storm" video was great. Perhaps show the second part next semester. Trip to History Society. (Student 5)

-- I enjoyed most or all of the readings and discussions in this class. They had variety and related to the course description -- thought provoking. Historical society visit was worthwhile. (Student 6)

-- The small group analysis was a great assignment. Class discussions are good and students presentation kept us involved in the class. Readings are useful and relevant, especially the First Days of School and Teaching Children to Care. Definitely use those again. Lots of useful resources. (Student 7)

--I have learned so much in this class! Out of my 3 classes I am taking this semester, I would have to say that this one is the most interesting I like all the group work, fun activities, fun videos, and educational assignments. The trip to the historial society was awesome too. Everything has caused me to reflect on my teaching and given me great ideas. I like the individual presentation too and you have a great selection of books and materials. And for not having to spend money on books! (Student 8)

-- Combine similar reading assingments. The handouts and assignments are of reasonable length and requirements. Peer presentations are great. I learned so much by presenting materials. (Student 9)

-- I hav found the readings inspiring, interesting, and thought-provoking. I think the "Maple Street" video is a good idea, but you might want to revise the lesson slightly. I think you have a unique perspective because your upbringing and life in China. I think it is important that you shared the relevant experiences and observations w/ your class. (Student 10)

-- I did learn a lot more about different strategies to use for teaching democracy in the classroom. I also enjoyed the free teahcing materials. I would keep the Twilight Zone episode, articles from the Shonker Institute, and the "Language Police" book. I found those very useful. I also enjoyed the activity looking at the different curriculum guides I think it is important to know what people think we should teach. (Student 11)

-- All the presentations.
Reflections.
|Lesson Plan Final. (Student 12)

-- I have had a wonderful learning experiences! (:- My eyes have been opened for so many topics to incorporate into my lessons! I like the video -- about the monsters coming to Maple Street -- Keep that. keep the blue-eyed/brown-eyed lesson. I like the book presentations (chapters), but wished I had the whole book to learn from. I enjoyed the handouts and the exposure to the great variety of material. Toxic Sludge is a wonderful book and eye opening. (Student 13)

--The idea of weekly readings, followed by classroom discussion. Written reflections on subject areas. Lesson plan appears to be good project. Your personal experiences add an interesting dimension. (Student 14)

-- This course has shown me how to implement the ideas of democracy and social justice in the classroom. Students do not always understand democracy and justice relate to them clearly. They have to be taught. Group projects and showed how the standards relate to social democracy. The movies -- eye of the storm, Twilight Zone were informative. Articles that discuss how "democracy" comes acorss in the school (like planning curriculum). (Student 15)