The core idea here is that "civil discourse can be modeled; thus, in addition to instilling in students an ability to recognize incivility, students can also be taught how to model civility in online discussions. Role modeling enables people to display suitable ways of acting and responding in a situation." It's especially important now, writes Angela McGowan-Kirsch, because of the rising incivility in online public discourse. There is a "connection between media consumption and perceptions of polarization," which leads to incivility, so McGowan-Kirsch recommends exercises in perceiving polarization, practice to avoid spreading misinformation, and learning how to debunk it when it appears. Overall I'm supportive, but I'm also aware that the requirement of civility can be misused by those in power to stifle the voices of those with legitimate grievances. Democracy - proper democracy - requires more than just discourse; it often requires redress, and this should be taught as well. Good article, though. 12 page PDF. Image: Bellevue College.
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