Asserts that, for citizens in a democracy to understand and act upon complex societal issues, they must be able to integrate knowledge from a variety of subjects. Traces the history of interdisciplinary social studies education and examines arguments of its supporters and detractors. (CFR)

The following topics and objectives are presented as essential for teachers, principals, and supervisors to study in working towards a modern elementary social studies curriculum: (1) objectives in the social studies; (2) trends in the social studies; (3) scope and sequence; (4) materials used in teaching; (5) readiness in learning; (6) number of…

Focuses on the importance of developing public appreciation for and association with the law. Argues that positive incentives to abide by the law are consistent with democratic values and supported by learning theories and child development research. Concludes that democracy works best when its citizens act according to their own will. (CFR)

Contends that there is a perception that young people are angry, and responsible for the growing violence problem. Asserts that young people need educational programs that teach them how to be safe and programs that provide opportunities to apply this information to their schools and communities. (CFR)

Asserts that global education has two interrelated dimensions: (1) a substantive, or knowledge of the world and how it works; and (2) a perceptual, or an orientation or world view. Contends that global education can provide a powerful focus for improving educational quality and help students cope with emerging global realities. (CFR)

Asserts educators have argued about meaning and purpose of social studies since the field's inception in the early 1900s. Contends that reform efforts associated with the America 2000 program focus on teaching factual information from history and geography. Maintains that the proper content of social studies must be persistent and contemporary…

Argues that teaching authentic civic values in schools frequently requires teaching about controversial issues. Asserts that adequate teacher preparation and continued inservice education is essential for effective instruction about contemporary social problems. Includes two model lessons and a list of organizations that offer materials for civic…

Asserts that, in the fields of the arts and education, the United States faces an intersection of opportunities to bring the arts into education with more depth. Maintains that the arts are essential for effective living today. Discusses Hannah Arendt's three forms of human activity--labor, work, and action--and relates the role of the arts to…

Summarizes E. D. Hirsch's book, "Cultural Literacy," focusing on four separate arguments. Compares U.S. and Canadian education and society, particularly in relationship to multiculturalism and bilingualism. Concludes that Hirsch trivializes culture by presenting as no more than a common convention of effective national communication.…

Students need opportunities for developing a strong self-image and for learning how to cope with life's problems safely and effectively. Programs should be provided that offer young people the opportunity to develop (1) a strong and secure sense of self-worth; (2) more effective communication skills; (3) the ability to cope with disappointment,…

Contends that teachers have an essential part to play in the moral and spiritual education of students. Discusses a white paper on moral education issued by the British government. Concludes that there is no conflict between spiritual and moral education and teaching the knowledge and skills necessary for employment. (CFR)

Contends that student alienation cannot be solved by improved instructional methodology or curriculum content reform. Argues that the citizenship education goals of social studies cannot be taught effectively because societal values do not support schools or teachers. Provides five suggestions on policies that might address these issues. (CFR)

Asserts that a trend toward vocationalism in Australian schools has been underway since the 1970s. Examines educational restructuring efforts in Australia and describes their relationship to Australian political developments. Argues for a reconstruction of democratic social democracy within the framework of vocationalism. (CFR)