The seven chapters of this theme issue are concerned with how individuals learn and reason in the subject matter domain of history. In this general context, there is a more specific focus on historical explanation and understanding. These chapters explore what should be taught in history and how it should be taught. (SLD)

Developed as a result of a 1984 summer institute sponsored by the Community College Humanities Association, this booklet offers guidance on the construction of a new, model introductory history course which would introduce students to the nature of historical studies. Following prefatory comments on the summer institute, a general overview,…

Between 1988 and 1991, the Center for Faculty Development undertook a project to evaluate the teaching of the Introductory Course in History at American community colleges. Based upon a survey of over 100 introductory history teachers and conference discussions, it was determined that two sets of course guidelines for faculty were required, one…