A recent study that surveyed close to 500 Alberta social studies teachers concluded that irreconcilable pressures "point to tensions between the formal program of studies and its prescribed outcomes, and the realities and complexities of classrooms where teachers attempt to realize good practices" (Alberta Teachers' Association, 2016, p,…

The latest round in Canada's History Wars was set off by reports on May 2, 2013, that the Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage was going to "undertake a thorough and comprehensive review of significant aspects in Canadian history." As details of the Heritage Committee's review emerged, controversy erupted as politicians, historians,…

A number of times over the past century, there have been struggles in the United States over what is and is not included in the history curriculum. These struggles have primarily been over who is represented in the teaching of history. In Canada, however, this debate has not been as prevalent. For example, Historica's Heritage Minutes is a…

Introduces the articles and topics featured in this special theme issue. The articles revolve around two major developments: the cognitive revolution in psychology and the historiographic revolution in history. Reviews the history of these two revolutions and notes articles relevant to each. (DSK)

Suggests the integration of science, technology, and society themes into existing elementary social studies curricula. Surveys works representing the philosophical basis for science, technology, and society. Includes suggestions for use of technology and society themes at each grade level of elementary school. (DK)

Discusses the National Council for the Social Studies "Guidelines for Teaching Science-Related Social Issues." Suggests that only through appropriate citizen action and participation can technology and science be contained and directed. Suggests a teaching unit exploring the topic of science, technology, and 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"…

Presents an overview of ethnohistory, a relatively new area of historical investigation that draws on anthropology, geography, and linguistics, as well as history, to document the pasts of predominantly indigenous peoples. Encourages social studies teachers to take notice of a major body of work being produced by Canadian ethnohistorians. (DSK)

Suggests that geography instruction is an ideal opportunity for reinforcing culture and identity among First Nations people. Discusses the issue of culture and some sources of opposition to teaching culture on Indian reserves. Points to themes that can subtly integrate cultural lessons with geography lessons. (DSK)

Discusses the importance of cultural geography for understanding the environment and of teaching geography as a form of visual literacy. Notes different concepts of landscape, including landscapes as physical geography, landscapes as texts, and landscapes as a process of identity formation. Examines cultural expressions of geographic visual…

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)

Argues that social studies in Saudi Arabia has gone through three periods since the 1920s. Reviews the first two periods as an introduction to contemporary developments. Notes the goals of social studies in Saudi Arabia. Reviews the results of a series of studies on the social studies curriculum and instruction. (DSK)

Focuses on the use of storytelling as a means of teaching history. Explores the ideas presented by Charles McMurry in his handbook "Special Method in History" that addresses the use of stories in teaching. States that McMurry thought history could be interesting and tangible for even the youngest child. (CMK)