Inadequate teacher training and the lack of consensus on what constitutes sex education are often cited to explain why few sex education programs are offered in the public schools. A survey of administrative officials at 777 teacher preparation institutions was conducted to examine the number and type of university-level programs designed to…

Describes the success of a Georgia Tech course that integrates science and literature by analyzing the division between these "two cultures." Summarizes course organization and content, including section topics; reading materials from science, philosophy, and literature; and basic issues confronted in the course. (MM)

The purpose of this study was to determine parents' perceptions regarding acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) education information for their eighth-grade school children. Their perceptions were based on their responses to a questionnaire that included topics such as AIDS as a disease, how the virus is spread, incidence of AIDS among…

The creation/evolution controversy has gained renewed popularity in the last few years. This has resulted in serious implications for science teachers. All classroom teachers need to protect themselves by learning the distinctions between scientific law and theory and to acquire knowledge of the various theories of evolution. (JN)

Discusses objectives of "Canada in a North American Perspective," a controversial postsecondary course taught as an Ontario Academic Credit course. Argues examination of Canada's perspective and history as a North American nation can benefit from comparison to the United States. Suggests this continentalist approach need not diminish…

Provides guidelines for successful classroom teaching about religion. Contends that teachers must be free of advocacy and that teachers should not solicit information about students religious affiliation. Encourages teachers to avoid the pitfalls of relativism and reductionism when discussing religion. (DB)

Discusses issues related to teaching international relations. Supports the position that teaching controversial issues is an integral part of any social studies course. Explores some controversial issues that might be considered in the classroom, describing approaches to teaching these issues. (KO)

Describes the construction of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) and simulation programs that use public domain and shareware programs to simulate economic controversies. Limitations of economics education are discussed, alternative curriculum development that utilizes controversies is explored, and the application of this CAI model to other…

Outlines a method for modifying the current social studies curriculum so it can be taught from an issue-centered approach. States that conventional courses in history and geography would be organized around the study of a select number of important issues and illustrates the way these classes would be taught using this approach. (SLM)

Recent statistics concerning teen pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases are compelling reasons for reaching kids before they become sexually active. Comprehensive K-12 programs are essential, despite conflicts over abstinence, abstinence-but, and safer-sex approaches. Adverse program criticism can be diffused if administrators examine…

Considers the potential use that English teachers might make of the discussions ensuing from curricular reform initiatives. Argues that the debates generated by the process of program reform are usually far better than the curricular results of those debates. Shows how assessment debates have great educational potential for curricular changes. (HB)

In recent years, it increasingly has been recognized that schools must change in basic ways if children are to be educated so that they are prepared to live in a peaceful world. This recognition has been expressed in a number of interrelated movements: "cooperative learning,""conflict resolution," and "education for…

The purpose of this manual is to provide guidance in designing and implementing law-related education (LRE) awareness and staff development sessions for the Law Related Education National Training and Dissemination Program. It assists in explaining the rationale and essential characteristics of LRE and guides the user in discussing the benefits of…

Explores questions raised in discussions of genocide and reviews ways in which the topic can be investigated. Argues that no matter what the outcome of student inquiry, it is essential that schools carefully and comprehensively include the study of genocide in social studies curricula as a means of reducing the potential for its occurrence. (GEA)

This is the report of an ad hoc committee on global education appointed by the National Council for the Social Studies. The report details the charges against global education raised by United States government critics, examines issues underlying global education curricula, and draws implications for social studies. Concludes with recommendations…