The study of earthquakes can help students build connections between theoretical analysis and real-world applications. However, units on earthquakes typically struggle to bridge that gap between theory and application. Traditional class activities focus on measuring earthquakes, such as triangulating epicenters by analyzing P and S wave arrival…

In this article, the author discusses how teachers can develop empathy in students through reading and writing about literature, which contributes to their development as citizens in a global community. By choosing texts that trigger empathic reactions, English teachers can help students better understand others' experiences with oppression and…

There is strong evidence that all students can gain significant learning benefit when their courses include opportunities for engagement with real-world problems, beyond the walls of their higher education institution (HEI). Internationally, cross-disciplinary discussions are increasing around the value of student learning that involves community…

The creation of a Community Social Profile as a joint effort between high school students and the community can help students to understand a community's economic, political, historical, and geographical dimensions. (CJ)

Guided design involves an instructor in developing a problem that students are expected to solve and then leading them, step by step, through the problem to its solution. This teaching method was used to help students explore how individuals, small groups, and then larger numbers of people in larger areas interact to form the Muncie (Indiana)…

Briefly outlines three major themes of American urban history pertaining to the study of all communities, and describes a program using extensive comparative community field studies which reinforces these themes. Emphasizes readings, discussion, field trips, and a month of field work. (Author/CK)

The visual arts, like multicultural education, play a vital role in our understanding of diverse human experiences. In this article we explore the role of community-based contemporary art in education. We consider the ways that art practices speak to issues of history and culture as a site of investigation and a method of investigation in…

Describes an applied community development course at a junior college, which involves a comprehensive social analysis of the community to determine leadership patterns, organizational structures, and community needs, and which involves students in the practical application of sociological theories and research methods. Provides a course outline.…

Described are two approaches for using newspapers to teach local, regional, or state geography courses to college students. In the first approach, the instructor developed a manual to supplement an introductory geography course which examined spatial patterns of various phenomena as they are found in the Cincinnati (Ohio) metropolitan area. He…

Describes a college-level course in psychology in which students study community issues and problems. Outlines how students work in community program internships and participate in individual and group research projects. Includes course objectives, recommended instructional resources, and evaluation strategies. (CFR)

Discusses cooperative learning as a means of teaching geography. Urges production of a positive classroom climate by using group builders and cooperative projects. Suggests projects involving maps, community study, and bulletin boards. Argues that students in cooperative learning become more involved in the subject and more motivated to learn…

Twenty-five award winning teacher developed projects and courses in economics are described. The projects are designed for use in primary, intermediate, junior high, and senior high schools. Descriptions indicate grade level, project background, time allotment, objectives, activities, and evaluation. The publication consists of five chapters.…

This publication discusses oral history, its potential as a teaching tool, and its application in a variety of different classroom situations from the elementary through the post-secondary levels. The purpose is to show the great variety of uses and possibilities for using oral history in the classroom. There are six major sections. The articles…

A four-phase composition unit helps adolescents solidify their sense of identity and build self-confidence while they improve their written, oral, research, and inquiry skills. The unit requires students to explore their relationships with family, friends, school, and community. (SB)

This booklet discusses and offers solutions for some of the educational problems growing out of the diverse nature of schools in the United States. Chapter I describes the society as a multicultural one in which a wide discrepancy exists between ideals and practices. A multicultural society is made up of many groups with varying degrees of common…