The author describes values clarifiction as an educational approach which employs practical strategies, is consistent with democratic society, covers a variety of issues, adapts to all subject matter, and can be done at all ability levels. (Author/AV)

The values clarification approach contains conceptual, ethical, and practical flaws. These include failure to distinguish moral from non-moral value issues, use of methods which jeopardize students' privacy rights, reliance on assumptions and methods of approaches to therapy, and absence of persuasive research to support claims of effectiveness.

The author criticizes values clarification techniques done without parental consent in non-elective courses because they invade privacy, lead to ethical relativism, and have the potential to damage children's ego-strength. (Author/AV)

Schools should continue to teach values now that traditional institutions (church, family) have less impact on children. Although some new techniques have concerned parents, it is the school's responsibility to teach the secular value system which is an outgrowth of the religious values of our nation's founders. (AV)

Maintains that in order to educate students to join the informed citizenry they must first develop their political identity through learning base knowledge concepts, such as the political continuum where students learn their political affiliations. Proceeds with a discussion on how students can apply this knowledge through participatory activities…

Argues that cooperative learning is useful in elementary social studies instruction. Identifies positive interdependence, student interaction, individual accountability for mastering material, and appropriate interpersonal and small group skills as essential elements of cooperative learning. Suggests that cooperative learning can help teach social…