Defines environmentalism both as a concept and an activity. As a concept, it encompasses not only environmental conservation but also social, economic, and political issues. As an activity, it focuses on a coordinated, networking, holistic issue approach to environmental problems. Implications of environmentalism (based on the definitions…

Intended to help teachers make the move from traditional textbooks to a more issue-centered, interdisciplinary social studies curriculum, this collection of essays comes from teachers who describe how to focus on teaching for and toward justice, with critical pedagogy as an underlying theme. The teachers' stories in this collection show the…

Science is a social issue. The examination of scientific issues offers an excellent opportunity for helping students develop a synthesized perspective on science related issues--a synthesis of the technical data coupled with social, political, economic, ethical, and philosophical information. (RM)

All disciplines are potentially useful for fuller interpretation of reality. Interdisciplinary instruction should emphasize cooperation, rather than conflict, among disciplines. Topics can include objects and processes (a horse or a river), events (the fall of Rome or migration), and issues (alcohol, crime, sports, or self and society). (DF)

Two science classroom techniques that can be used in the social studies classroom to motivate students involve puzzling phenomena and relating science to social issues such as over-population, energy, and pollution. (JR)

Lists books, pamphlets, and articles of interest to teachers addressing "science, technology, and society" in the curriculum. This extensive bibliography includes international sources as well as those from public and private groups. (DH)

Student interest was stimulated and critical thinking skills developed through an "Issues in Social Biology" course which include several topics in genetics. Judicious selection of topics, course format, and ordering of subjects are discussed, along with suggestions for course improvement development. (DH)

Discusses the case study approach and describes an advanced graduate seminar organized around this method. Suggests that cases may be used to place historical developments in the field of psychology in the broader context of political, sociological, philosophical, and theological issues.

This handbook is intended to be a ready source of reference for educators who want to find out about STS (Science, Technology and Society). Ideas, strategies, and models for implementing STS in the classroom are provided in this volume. The articles that appear here reflect current thinking in the field of STS education. These articles encompass a…

This book offers an introduction to the history and nature of science and technology (HNST) for educators who are interested in teaching about this content area. The book has five chapters, organized to address the following questions: (1) Why is this subject matter important?; (2) What should be taught about this subject matter?; (3) How can I…

Reviews the problems and benefits associated with instruction of controversial issues, questioning the effectiveness of a neutral and objective position in the discussion of controversial topics. Also assesses prevalent teacher tendencies in instructional approaches and offers suggestions for classroom adoption. (ML)

Active involvement in society-related issues can elevate junior high school students' interest not only in the problem being solved but also in related scientific concepts. Examples of how scientific concepts and society-related issues can be taught in the same class are presented, focusing on genetic engineering, water shortage, and others.…

Based on successful classroom practice, the 31 essays in this book describe methods for teaching English and language arts while increasing students' self-esteem and respect for others, awareness of social issues, appreciation of literature, understanding of connections among disciplines, and involvement in their own learning. Essays in the book…

Discusses the nature of social studies as a discipline. Defines it as citizenship education for teaching students how to deal with change and conflict in society. Suggests that social studies teachers believe that content should be interdisciplinary, emphasize themes and concepts dealing with social and personal issues, and teach the process of…

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)