A rationale and model are presented for using literature to teach values clarification in elementary social studies classes. The premise is that a major goal of social studies is to develop good citizens, which requires a comparative knowledge of self and society, and decision-making ability. An explanation is given of how literature (including…

This section, from a larger report describing a project designed to systematically investigate how religious and traditional values are represented in today's public school curricula, presents a critical evaluation of the two most discussed and influential models of moral education operating in the United States today. Both of these models have…

A study conducted at the University of Virginia has implications for the development of a conservation ethic in natural resource conservation courses. If instruction is provided about alternative approaches and the ramifications explored (thereby helping individuals to clarify their natural resource values), important changes in individuals'…

The crux of energy-related issues goes beyond technological matters to the political, economical, cultural, geographical, and historical aspects of human society. Accordingly, this manual presents background information and lessons that are designed to help secondary school social studies classes examine several facets of energy problems and…

In this position paper, the authors respond to the frequent criticisms and charges that values clarification is value free, relativistic, superficial, and without a cogent theoretical or research base. The authors first examine values clarification as theory. As originally developed by Raths, values education is a theory based on the thinking of…

Four studies completed from 1973 to 1976 are described which focus on the relationship of knowledge to values clarification and/or value shifts with respect to environmental problems or issues. One-hundred twelve eighth graders were interviewed before and after a 12-week period of instruction in skills of conducting environmental education…

The categories under which references are cited are the following: (1) general, (2) values analysis, (3) values clarification, (4) moral development, (5) moral development (role taking), and (6) inculcation. (AM)

Traces the history of moral education from the ethics-laden forties and fifties through the value-neutral sixties and seventies to the late eighties' focus on character, socialization, and culture. Offers a blueprint for future ethical instruction based on example, explanation, exhortation, environment, and experience. (MLH)

Proposes that creating materials for values games is a three-step process, involving the development of a set of educational moral dilemmas, preparation of response cards, and familiarity with game rules. Sample teacher and student moral dilemmas are provided. (MM)

Discusses the weaknesses inherent in Sidney Simon's values clarification method and Lawrence Kohlberg's cognitive moral development method, suggesting that single class, isolated instruction overlooks the affective, unconscious elements of character formation. Recommends an alternative holistic approach based on John Locke's concept of all…

Proposes educational guidelines and a teacher training model for Environmental Values Education (EVE). Suggests proficiency areas to consider for EVE program development and implementation. Parameters involving student and teacher background and type of program strategy are discussed. (ML)

A national project of the Society for Values in Higher Education examined comprehensive values studies at eight colleges and universities. The possibility that dialog about values might improve campus decision making was explored. The place of academic freedom in the discussion of values is described. (MLW)

Some of the major changes and trends in ethical philosophy and ethics teaching are illustrated through an analysis of ethics primers. Changes in the field of ethics and in the development of moral awareness are reflected in the development of ethics primers. (JN)

A total of 59 studies were reviewed, 33 focusing on values clarification and 26 on moral development. The research on values clarification indicated that little or no confidence is warranted regarding its potential curricular effectiveness. However, the research base for the moral development approach indicated that cautious optimism is…

Health educators can play a significant role in the development of students' mental health. Key concepts identified for the mental health curriculum include: (1) an understanding of the student's self esteem; (2) values clarification and decision making; and (3) health counseling. (JN)