While the application of geoinformation (GI) in German schools is becoming increasingly important, a systematic integration in school curricula, arranged in a cumulative and competence-oriented manner, is still lacking. Here the authors discuss existing approaches to the problem and propose a learning strategy based on the stepwise gain of GI…

This ERIC Digest examines: (1) the meaning of the term "Pacific Rim"; (2) reasons for emphasizing the Pacific Rim in the social studies curriculum; and (3) useful strategies for teaching about this part of the world. The terms, Pacific Rim and Pacific Basin, are used. interchangeably; however, the "Rim" refers to those nations…

This curriculum framework is intended to serve as a comprehensive guide for redesigning curriculum, instruction, assessment, and professional development around the new Colorado state model of content standards for K-12 geography education. The framework enumerates strategies and ideas for implementing the new standards at the district, school,…

Maintains that history is stories of extraordinary and ordinary people confronting problems not unlike today. Presents and discusses five keys to history: (1) time; (2) place; (3) people--achievements and failures; (4) society--contributions and failures; and (5) connections between past, present, and future. (CFR)

Argues current social studies reform movement raises false dichotomy between those who would emphasize content of history geography and those who would focus on critical thinking or information processing skills. Contends real goal of social studies should be practical citizenship competencies/participation. Concludes that teachers should create…

Nine units of study to help high school social studies teachers introduce a global perspective are contained in this booklet. Stressing interactions among regions economically, politically, and socially, the lessons are intended to help teachers reinforce basic skills and introduce new images of the world. Each lesson contains the following…

This guide is organized around a list of social studies skills that all students in Idaho should know and be able to do according to each grade level from kindergarten through sixth grade. The guide will help provide parents, teachers, and students with knowledge of what is being taught in a logical scope and sequence by grade level. The guide is…

Considers how computer-assisted learning (CAL) can be integrated into a skills curriculum, and argues that CAL can provide a flexible approach to developing a range of skills and support the development of competence in information technology. Finds that a carefully designed program can be an appropriate learning strategy for skills courses. (DSK)

Describes attempts to devise effective strategies to develop students' communication and information technology (CIT) skills. Compares the outcomes of three modules that used learning materials mounted on the Internet. Finds that the provision of minimal instruction, low assessment weighting, and an experiential learning atmosphere encouraged…

Intended for K-12 geography teachers, this publication discusses course content and teaching methods for geography instruction. There are ten chapters. The first chapter discusses three educational philosophies which contend that the goals of education are to know, to do, and to be. Chapter 2 examines the nature of geography, discussing four…

Designed for elementary and secondary teachers around the world, this book presents a variety of strategies, objectives, and content for teaching geography. The first of 10 chapters takes a critical look at some of the recent changes in geography and education. Chapter 2 examines learning problems in light of research by Piaget and Bruner.…

Contends that barriers to effective education can be overcome by using the community as a living laboratory for social studies learning. Discusses out-of-school learning opportunities that meet four criteria: (1) goal relevance; (2) appropriate level of difficulty; (3) feasibility; and (4) cost effectiveness. (CFR)

This curriculum unit is part of a larger project designed to introduce communication-based, culturally specific instructional materials on French-speaking African societies into foreign language curricula with the goal of increasing the appeal and relevance of French language study, especially to African-American students. The materials are…

This unit is designed to introduce intermediate French language students to an important region of the French-speaking world--Africa. The unit provides the French language teacher with lesson plans and materials that are intended to reinforce French language skills, teach about African culture, and infuse global education skills and concepts. The…