Final answer:
Authors suggest improving discussions about history by incorporating cultural references and a personal tone, balancing classical texts with diverse literature, and promoting historical empathy and diverse perspectives to develop a richer understanding of historical events.
Step-by-step explanation:
One way the authors suggest improving how we talk about studying history is by seeking a more personal and conversational approach that connects with students. For instance, incorporating cultural references and language used by students, including references to popular music, memes, tweets, and video games, can make the study of literature more relevant to their lives.
Additionally, striking a balance between canonical texts and diverse, contemporary literature helps to broaden perspectives. Enhancing historical study further involves engaging with historical empathy, diverse perspectives, and a variety of interpretations and voices to gain a more accurate and rich picture of history. This includes showcasing underrepresented scholars, embracing diversity of thought, and offering primary source material that represents the cultures being discussed from a firsthand perspective.
Empathy allows students to understand others' ways of thinking and thus better analyze and evaluate today's global changes. Exercises such as 'In Their Own Words' and 'Dueling Voices' foster the value of interpretive discussion and critical analysis in historical studies.