In this article, the author shares a personal reflection of his military and educational experiences in the aftermath of 9/11. He describes his concerns about the ongoing "War on Terror" and the "disengaged militarism" of the United States and how this has shaped his approach in the classroom. Expanding on his personal…

The author has been teaching pre-service elementary social studies teachers for over 20 years and one thing that always astonishes her is how "fuzzy" they are about why social studies is taught as a subject in schools. When she asks this question in her undergraduate social studies methods classes, she usually gets specific…

This article is divided into two sections. The first section reviews the national high school history programs in Quebec from 1905 onward. It focuses on the national and civic identity developed through the programs, as well as on political wrangles over their identity-building goals. Because the Quebec public school system was denominational, and…

The field of civic education is one that encompasses an abundance of topics and issues. In an attempt to bring some much needed clarity to this field, this conceptual study will question the way different epistemological conceptions of citizenship and education influence the characteristics of civic education. Offering a new conceptual framework…

Social capital, moral education, and citizenship education are three big ideas fundamental to the health of any democratic state. Yet exactly what these terms mean is a source of much contention and divergent thinking. Bringing some clarity to the three might help the cause of bolstering their prominence in educational discourse and reform.…

In democratic societies the level of citizens' civic engagement and inclusion in all forms of democratic participation is crucial in maintaining social cohesion and a vibrant democracy. In the historical development of Canada's demographic, political, socio-economic and cultural systems, immigration continues to play an influential role. Our paper…

In this paper we argue that the inherent flaw in the current Ontario civics curriculum is that it is too heavily influenced by the functional aspects of "what is" Canada, rather than giving the opportunity to experience the emotional qualities of what it means to be Canadian. Creating a community of learners based on the caveats of…

Argues that a social action model of citizenship education is mandated by two principles of democracy: consent of the governed and equal opportunity for participation in governance. Emphasizes the importance of a sense of political efficacy. Argues that wealthier children learn this at home, but children from poorer families need this experience…

Presents a critique of an article by Chuck Chamberlin arguing for a political action model of social studies instruction in elementary schools. Suggests 10 reasons why this approach may not be advisable. Argues that Chamberlin's suggestions lean heavily on a U.S. study that may not be relevant to Canadian society. (DK)

Traces challenges to history's place in Canadian school curricula during the 20th century. Argues that while citizenship goals have provided the rationale for teaching history, history as a vehicle of citizenship education has come under assault. Considers the question of inclusion in the historical narrative and how it has been addressed. (DSK)

Beginning in the early 20th century, the role of citizenship as an organizing concept has been significant in the teaching of social studies. The central aim of the social studies was the production of "good citizens," and the main focus of the Alberta social studies curriculum has ultimately become developing "responsible"…

Describes the community participation facet of the eleventh-grade social studies curriculum for British Columbia. Proposes a four-stage model to identify, study, and propose recommendations about a community issue or problem. Suggests that social action based on empirical research improves social studies instruction. (CFR)

Questions whether current social studies curriculum units and learning activities contribute to the goals of citizenship education. Contends that student attitudes about citizenship are seldom affected by typical social studies instruction. Asserts that teachers must understand and accept larger educational goals and develop classroom activities…

Continues a discussion of the state of secondary social studies in Saudi Arabia. Discusses the preparation of textbooks and their use by Saudi teachers. Notes problems with the texts and teachers' use of nontext materials in their teaching. Offers conclusions and recommendations for improving social studies education in Saudi Arabia. (DSK)

Contends that many educators believe that social studies as a subject does not have a future in Canadian schools systems. Asserts that social studies is essential and must address four critical areas to actualize its potential for attaining citizenship goals: content, critical thinking, community action, and caring. (CMK)