This article reflects on the school's role in the building of citizenship, especially in socially vulnerable contexts. We argue, and try to show, that effective participation in decision-making processes is a key tool to promote conditions that help in social transformation and the formation of active citizenship. We offer a brief description of…

This paper challenges a pervasive curricular justification for educationally acquainting young people with stories of genocide and other moral horrors from history. According to this justification, doing so favours the development of psycho-social soft skills connected with interpersonal awareness and the establishment and maintenance of positive…

Describes the experience of teachers and administrators at a middle school in Georgia as they faced the challenge of developing a curriculum for a character education program. Looks at how character education has been viewed across the century. Discusses the development by parents and educators of this character education program, its…

Described is a curriculum development effort in U.S. history--the "Reasoning with Democratic Values" series--aimed at stimulating higher-order thinking. Features of cognitive developmental psychology and of the new social studies materials are used in the lessons that ask students to examine and discuss ethical controversies. (RM)

A conceptual background and definition of social education with emphasis on interpersonal values and skills are provided. Secondary Canadian and U.S. social education curriculum development projects are discussed, emphasizing implementation guidelines, program objectives, and potential pitfalls. (RM)

Argues that the themes of the Civics and Moral Education program in Singapore schools are training citizens and transmitting national values for economic and political socialization. Discusses key components, and shows how the program integrates strands of civics and moral education from earlier programs. Assesses impacts on students and teachers.…

A number of issues concerning the evaluation of moral and civic education programs are discussed. Four program types are described: (1) rationalist, which involves a high cognitive knowledge of the law and legal processes; (2) actionist, in which students participate in out-of-class projects; (3) values clarification, in which students study,…

The format and mode of operation of a special commission appointed by the Maryland legislature to examine the teaching of values in elementary and secondary public schools are presented. The Commission surveyed and evaluated values education programs, interviewed educators, and held meetings with citizens throughout the state. Consensus was…

This packet includes reprints of articles concerning the development of a caring and ethical rural school community. The four sections of the packet overview theories and rationale for developing a caring classroom, successful programs in ethical schools and classrooms, leadership and decision making for building a caring and ethical school…