Discusses the nature of the movement to include scientific creationism in the school curriculum and science textbooks, explains the extent of scientists' acceptance of evolution, and describes actions being taken to counteract creationist efforts in an organized and effective manner. (PGD)

For the past 25 years, environmental education has been a widely discussed, highly politicized cross-curricular area in Great Britain and the United States, with disagreements about its composition and social purpose. Explores whether either or both historical cross-national experiences can guide today's environmental educators. The…

Provides a response to the April 2001 "Social Education" article, "A Critique of the NCSS Curriculum Standards," (Anna Ochoa-Becker). Focuses on the critiques offered by Ochoa-Becker that address the lack of time given to certain issues. (CMK)

A sex education program in Kentucky's Jefferson County schools, although mandated by the state, was challenged by a small group of parents and virtually disappeared. Later, helped by newspaper articles and recognized organizations, the program is gradually being reinstated. (MLF)

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…

Describes an upper-level undergraduate psychology course in which students applied psychological research to contemporary social issues. Students presented two reports on a controversial issue: one based on media reports and the other based on their own research. Reports that the experience gave students a better understanding of the strengths and…

In their efforts at curriculum reform, feminist scholars need to take into account the oppression of homosexuals and lesbians. A truly evolved curriculum takes seriously the overlooked lives, action, ideas and products of those whose efforts truly make societies possible. Inclusion of homosexuals and lesbians in the curriculum is important so that…

Describes McCloud's efforts to improve coverage of the Vietnam War in the junior high school curriculum. Presents answers to the question "What do you think are the most important things for today's junior high students to understand about the Vietnam War?" from people such as Ronald Reagan, Jimmy Carter, Tom Hayden, and Robert S.…

Evidence suggests that curricular content and the educational process shape and are shaped by sociocultural factors. This article explores changing ideas concerning how schools should respond to the societal environment and points out that no educational approach is completely neutral. The author urges that school-society relations be regarded…

Supports increasing emphasis on interethnic conflict around the world as part of an education in pluralism. Argues that the fuzzy moral relativism and feel-good message of most multicultural instruction tends to essentialize culture and inhibit any meaningful understanding. Maintains that facing difficult issues produces a true appreciation and…

Identifies issues arising from the inclusion of sex education in the school curriculum. Issues range from the questions of content and organization to those concerning teaching based upon moral considerations. Examines the primary school and the secondary school's curriculum. Calls for a program that is realistically tailored to the needs of…

A year ago, an upstate New York college withdrew a speaking invitation to Wade Churchill, a University of Colorado professor who had characterized 9/11 victims as "little Eichmanns." Churchill's portrayal of 9/11 victims as a mixture of conscious and unwitting participants in a systemic evil of Holocaust proportions indeed was…

The growing movement for teaching about religion in the public schools, as distinguished from religious instruction or devotional exercises, reflects widespread concern regarding the phenomenon of religious illiteracy and the lack of knowledge or understanding of the significant role played by religion in U.S. life, past and present, and in world…

This paper provides an overview and critique of a team taught, senior level, interdisciplinary college course entitled "AIDS: Challenges and Crises." The details of the course and its underlying rationale are outlined. The paper concludes with a curriculum proposal rooted in the idea of critical education for citizenship. Those who teach political…

This document contains two sets of lessons designed to teach elementary and secondary students about apartheid in South Africa. The goals of the lessons are: (1) to create a greater awareness of recent events related to the practice of apartheid by the South African government; (2) to provide a greater understanding of the effects of apartheid on…