Discusses software and logistical issues and proposed solutions in the development of a system for delivery of flexible and distance-based learning using a computer-assisted learning module and computer-based testing. Assesses initial evaluative responses to the new system and to this mode of learning in general. (DSK)

Utilizes a letter by J. Dewey Soper as an example of how archival documents can be used in the social studies classroom and explains that in the letter Soper reported on his exploration of Baffin Land (Canada) to the acting director of the Geological Survey. Addresses possible activities and discussion questions. (CMK)

Expounds that student involvement in social studies competitions helps students develop a spirit of inquiry, enhance thinking and research skills, and even shape their world views. Considers the competition process addressing the teacher's role, student preparation, and students' reflection on their learning. Lists a variety of national social…

Presents a lesson that: (1) explores how Stephen Decatur's mansion reflected the importance that the politically ambitious once placed on being in close proximity to sites of authority; and (2) examines Decatur's duel with Commodore Barron in 1820 in order to illustrate how "gentlemen" handled conflicts that compromised their sense of…

Describes a collaborative project between a South Carolina History and Geography teacher of grades 7-8 and an American teacher of English-as-a-Second-Language in a Japanese high school. Describes class activities as students exchanged correspondence, sent packages, and finally met each other when the American students traveled to Japan. Notes…

Describes an activity that introduces students to the geography of the Caribbean. Begins with students creating a map of the region using their own mental representations. The activity uses the Five Fundamental Themes of Geography. Includes a color map of the Caribbean islands. (CMK)

Describes an interdisciplinary project incorporating both geography and mathematics for fourth and fifth grade students. Focuses on reading a map with lines of latitude and longitude, learning about climatic regions, and using statistical measures to analyze data. Suggests additional activities to accompany the project. (CMK)

Examines the map-making process of middle-school students to determine which actions influence their accuracy, how prior knowledge helps their map construction, and what lessons can be learned from map making. Indicates that instruction that focuses on recognition of interconnections between map elements can promote map reasoning skills. (DSK)

Presents the history and social science standards of Virginia for history, geography, economics, and civics (K-3); Virginia studies (grade 4); U.S. history (grades 5-6); civics/economics (grade 7); world history (grades 8-9); world geography (grade 10); U.S. history (grade 11); and U.S. and Virginia government (grade 12). (CMK)

Describes a course for first-year college students that focuses on the Silk Road. Discusses the problems that occurs in such a course, types of resources used, basic strategies and tactics taken, and the focus on mapmaking in the beginning of the course. Includes an annotated bibliography. (CMK)

Describes an elementary school's reading-incentive program, based on a travel theme, that was developed to promote greater understanding of diverse cultures, to increase knowledge of world geography, and to encourage independent reading. Topics include motivation, parent involvement, public-library help, and increased use of the library's…

Describes a year-long social studies program called "Passport to the Millennium." Students "travel" around the world learning about the history, geography, culture, and economy of different countries. The program is appropriate for students in elementary to secondary grades. Includes a sample lesson plan. (CMK)

Explains the theory and educational utility of field-based instruction. Discusses an effective field-course structure, focusing on the planning process, pre- and post-trip meetings, and student activities and assignments. Describes a field course on resource management in national parks based at Oklahoma State University. (CMK)

At least since John Dewey published his classic works (Dewey [1916] 1938; 1933; [1938] 1963), teachers have been urged to engage students by using thinking and inquiry tasks that reflect real-world concerns and interests. Subsequent to the appearance of Dewey's discussions of that pedagogical stance, the National Council for the Social Studies…

As national boundaries have lost their traditional significance over the past thirty years through increased travel, global telecommunications, and international trade and investment, it has become important for individuals to possess firsthand experience with other cultures. Traditionally, American undergraduates accomplish this by studying…