Democratizing the Classroom
The article explores a radical pedagogical method for democratizing the classroom that
generates rich, engaged, student-led discussions. The approach is grounded in the notion that
democratic participation in the classroom is a worthy goal of radical pedagogy, that students
must be adequately prepared in order to take on greater responsibility in the classroom, and
that greater learning occurs when students take a more active role in the learning process.
Careful sequencing of discussions and assignments is used to turn over responsibility for the
course to students gradually, without sacrificing the depth and sophistication that instructors
want to achieve in the classroom. The result is a classroom in which all students participate and
in which thoughtful, informed discussion and debate is the primary mode of engagement.
Archived Articles
The American Democracy Project at Illinois State is a cooperative effort by students, faculty, staff, and administration. The goal of the Project is to promote civic engagement, in many different forms, on the part of students, now and in the future. The Project embraces all organized activity designed to promote constructive civic engagement on the part of undergraduates while they are on campus, and after they graduate.

Building on the wide variety of such activity already occurring at Illinois State, the Project is designed to serve as a catalyst for programmatic changes that will ensure all Illinois State students are fully prepared to assume a responsible role as contributors to civic society.
Civil Service Council Meeting
Tue, August 3, 2010 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Bone Student Center (BON)
Civil Service Council Meeting
Tue, August 17, 2010 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Bone Student Center (BON)
Civil Service Council Meeting
Tue, September 7, 2010 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Bone Student Center (BON)
Master Plan Public Forum
Thu, September 16, 2010 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Bone Student Center (BON)
Assc. of Latin American Students' Bienvenidos - Welcome to ISU
Sat, September 18, 2010 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM Quad
View all American Democracy Project Events.
American Democracy Project Events Feed
CTLT Summer 2010 Program Guide
Click here to view pictures of ADP sponsored events!!!
- Thoughts on Democracy
- Constitution Day Celebration