Examines the historical development of the expanding environments sequence in the elementary social studies curriculum. Concludes that the sequence is obsolete because it is based on the discredited idea that children relive the cultural history of their race as they develop. Argues for abandonment of expanding environments sequence because of its…

Describes the evolution and growth in popularity of the expanding environments framework for elementary social studies. Its reliance on developmental psychology and its portrayal of an artificial, conflict-free world suggest flaws of major dimensions. Concludes that the near-universal adoption of the expanding environments approach may sustain its…

Discusses a study of the views of social education professionals and elementary social studies teachers on elementary social studies education. Reports many areas of agreement between the two groups and mostly minor points of disagreement. Concludes that social education goals would be better served by greater understanding between the two groups.…

Examines three curriculum projects in order to evaluate the organization of social studies curriculum around the social science disciplines. Concludes that curriculum often minimizes students' creative powers by stressing logical tidiness at the expense of the social, personal, and communal processes which characterize social science. (Author/DB)

Presents Rugg's educational philosophy and his materials in a descriptive overview; discusses his designs for a new social studies field; examines the process of curriculum development practiced by Rugg and his team of educators and authors; and draws parallels between the Rugg product and the projects of the 1960's. (Author/JK)