Teaching Students About James Holmes

Teaching students about contemporary history involves covering various social, cultural, and political events, including the often-sensitive topic of mass shootings. One such case is that of James Holmes, the convicted shooter in the 2012 Aurora, Colorado movie theater massacre. This article will provide guidance on how to teach students about James Holmes while maintaining a safe, respectful, and constructive learning environment. Setting the Stage 1. Establish a safe space: Begin by clarifying your intentions in discussing James Holmes and emphasizing that students should feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and asking questions. Encourage empathy and understanding for different points of view.... [Read more...]