Election 2008 coverage

Here we are in another election! It seems like yesterday. It was a grand time to be an educator. We debated platforms, talked about issues, spoke of local candidates and party leaders. There was a buzz. We learned not to believe everything we read. In the time since, however, there are much more information out there than before. The wise educator needs to educate her students.

I am concerned with the news coverage. I would like to read information and news – not the blog of everyman. It is hard to weed out facts from those who pontificate with little knowledge or expertise behind them. I read every article with a critical eye. I know that reporters have editors and are accountable. When I see the trend towards anyone being allowed to post offensive, biased, racist and sexist comments, I shudder.

Teachers are wise to take this opportunity to explore this important facet of Canadian Politics. Students can collect articles, campaign pamphlets, view debates, and generally exploit this phenomenon that lends itself to literacy and integrated unit opportunities. You need not have a great deal of experience or be a political animal, the older students (Gr. 4 and above) can have a grand time. My Gr. 8’s, back in 2006, found a lot of excitement in following what proved to be a minority government. We compared and contrasted what we read, saw on TV and heard on radio. My classroom walls were filled with articles that students would rush in to show me.

It was interesting comparing the difference between Municipal ( and Regional), Provincial and Federal mandates and issues. It is the Municipal elections that have a profound effect on citizens in terms of your region and local taxes, but a Federal election is a prime opportunity for separating out the various levels of government and determining their mandate and effect upon Canadians as a whole.

Another aspect of this current election is the effect that applications like Twitter and Facebook have on election fever. Entrepreneurs have taken advantage of the money they can glean from ads on web site. I have chosen not to. This, in and of itself reflects a bias. One web site provides much information by a political science grad and student teacher. It is possible to have interesting discussions about potential bias (or lack thereof) in this Web site.

No matter- talk about what is going on. Grill your candidates and hold them accountable.