In the age of tribalism, is there a common, unifying curriculum?

10:30 - 11:45 a.m., Thursday, September 27, 2018
PSU Ballroom East

U.S. citizens have always had differing opinions regarding how to conduct business, religion, education, family life and government. These discussions have led to inspiring changes and, at other times, to tragic events. Today, our society is being identified through the lens of tribalism; compromise does not seem possible anymore. Lines delineating the tribe cannot be crossed safely. John Dewey and others envisioned education as a unifying force that leads to a democratic way of life. As citizens identify with their tribes, what role can public education play in presenting a purpose and a curriculum designed to unify rather than promote the beliefs of a particular tribe? In other words, is public education and a common curriculum possible in the age of tribalism?

Presenters