Uploaded May 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
How should schools teach controversial issues, and what happens when ideology shapes education?
Jon Shields (Claremont McKenna College) presents his research on how schools teach controversial issues. Drawing on Open Syllabus data, Shields shows a structural asymmetry in course assignments. Respondents Will Fithian and Brian Soucek offer pointed critiques, followed by a wide-ranging discussion on the challenges of teaching controversial topics, the role of gender in classroom dynamics, and what a more intellectually balanced pedagogy might look like across disciplines.
Centered on the theme “The Value of Viewpoint Diversity: Why It Matters and How to Practice It Well”, this conference offers actionable insights, fosters rich intellectual exchange, and brings together individuals from across the region who are invested in the future of higher education.
The event is co-organized by the HxA Campus Communities in California, Oregon, and Washington.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:09 Jon Shields' Presentation
6:22 The New Jim Crow Analysis
18:24 Potential Consequences of Sectarian Education
20:46 Will Fithian's Response and Critique
26:03 Brian Soucek's Response and Critique
26:56 In-Depth Analysis of Thompson's Article
30:27 Discussion on Teaching Controversial Cases in Law
37:35 Jon Shields Revisiting the Findings and Suggestions for Improvement
42:51 Q&A
46:07 Applying the Method to Other Disciplines and Topics
50:16 The Role of Gender in Classroom Discussions
52:27 Questions and Reflections on the Study
How should schools teach controversial issues, and what happens when ideology shapes education?
Jon Shields (Claremont McKenna College) presents his research on how schools teach controversial issues. Drawing on Open Syllabus data, Shields shows a structural asymmetry in course assignments. Respondents Will Fithian and Brian Soucek offer pointed critiques, followed by a wide-ranging discussion on the challenges of teaching controversial topics, the role of gender in classroom dynamics, and what a more intellectually balanced pedagogy might look like across disciplines.
Centered on the theme “The Value of Viewpoint Diversity: Why It Matters and How to Practice It Well”, this conference offers actionable insights, fosters rich intellectual exchange, and brings together individuals from across the region who are invested in the future of higher education.
The event is co-organized by the HxA Campus Communities in California, Oregon, and Washington.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:09 Jon Shields' Presentation
6:22 The New Jim Crow Analysis
18:24 Potential Consequences of Sectarian Education
20:46 Will Fithian's Response and Critique
26:03 Brian Soucek's Response and Critique
26:56 In-Depth Analysis of Thompson's Article
30:27 Discussion on Teaching Controversial Cases in Law
37:35 Jon Shields Revisiting the Findings and Suggestions for Improvement
42:51 Q&A
46:07 Applying the Method to Other Disciplines and Topics
50:16 The Role of Gender in Classroom Discussions
52:27 Questions and Reflections on the Study
