The Issues in Social Studies Education

Go beyond the classroom to add to the learning experience.

Social studies education encompasses a variety of specialties, from geography and world cultures to political science and psychology. Figuring out what to teach in each area is difficult, but there are overlapping strategies to implement in each of these specialties. Utilizing these strategies addresses several important issues in social studies, including student involvement, linking the past to the present and incorporating current events into curriculum.

Present Historical Context

Include historical context on the issue to increase the understanding of the information presented. Understanding what else was going on in the world prior to a war makes it easier for students to understand why a war happened. Address the issue from a broad perspective, and narrow the topic down as you progress through the curriculum.

Utilize Current Events

Address how to become an informed citizen through the use of news sources by teaching students how to interpret the news to discover the important issues in society. Reserve one day a week to discuss current events. Ask students to bring in a news article, and set up small groups so students can explain and ask questions about their articles.

Show Relevance

Relate the curriculum to the students so they understand why they material is important to them. Localize the materials by talking about people and places the students can recognize. Use this personalization to tie into the big picture.

Connect the Curriculum to the Community

Promote good citizenship skills by connecting the learning process in the classroom to the community. Accomplish this by encouraging community service, implementing community programs for students to take part in and taking field trips. Include places like the local court house, the community center or even to the state capitol. Getting students actively involved in the community fosters the development of future citizens.

References

• Social Studies in Action; Teaching Social Studies
• National Council for Social Studies; Nationals Standards for Social Studies Teachers; Charles Myers et. al.; 2002

Resources

• Youth Leadership Institute