Heart of the Matter Podcast: How can teachers help kids understand controversial topics?

[LaksaNews]

Character and Citizenship Education (CCE) lessons in Singapore schools came under public scrutiny recently because of discussions on the Israel-Hamas war. How can contentious issues be discussed in classrooms and what skills do teachers need to navigate children in an increasingly polarised world?

Steven Chia explores this with Dr Thavam Kanagaratnam, master specialist at the CCE branch of the Education Ministry, Philibert Leow, principal of Jurongville Secondary School and clinical psychologist Dr Annabelle Chow.

Host Steven Chia with his guests Dr Thavam Kanagaretnam, Dr Annabelle Chow and Philibert Leow. (Photo: CNA/Junaini Johari)
Dr Thavam:

When we talk about contemporary issues ... it becomes an opportunity to use that as a platform for (students) to learn how to talk to each other in ways that are respectful ... and learn how to agree to disagree.

Philibert Leow:

Whether we like it or not, children are being exposed to views online, (they) are struggling with some of these views. And some are looking to talk about (it). Schools will continue to provide that safe space for children to speak their mind.

Dr Annabelle Chow:

If my child comes home and says, this discussion happened, and I don't agree with it, I (would be) curious about how the discussion was held. And if there were opposing views, how was that dealt with? I think that's more important to me as a parent.

Jump to these key moments:

1:17 What is a difficult topic?

5:55 What if teachers have strong views about a topic

9:06 Teachers don’t need to have all the answers

14:23 Is there too much pressure on our educators?

18:42 How can parents be more involved?


Find more episodes of Heart of the Matter here.

A new episode of Heart of the Matter drops every Friday. Follow the podcast on Apple or Spotify for the latest updates.

Have a great topic for us? Drop the team an email at cnapodcasts [at] mediacorp.com.sg

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