This in-depth study of school curricula in Zimbabwe examines curriculum development and its relationship to state politics in postcolonial third-world nations. An important assumption of the research is that curriculum is a powerful political tool, particularly in newly independent African states; hence, radical curricular revisions were to be…

The undergraduate course in agricultural ethics has been under development at Texas A&M University for four years. The course that has evolved is the result of discussion between the philosophy and agriculture departments. The course attempts to incorporate basic economic principles that affect agriculture as well as to tie these principles to…

A sensitive topic can be used effectively in a class of English as a second language (ESL) if planned carefully. While there are the risks that non-native students will become embarrassed and withdrawn, or will develop negative feelings about American society, there are ways to minimize those risks. This can be done by considering the…

Classroom activities are presented to help teachers introduce general controversial issues and specific issues on nuclear power in their high school science, social studies, and English classes. Objectives are to help students understand the various techniques of persuasion; the relationship between bias, persuasion, and fact; how these techniques…

The current debate about social studies education is the focus of this paper, and the questions and the charges raised by recent surveys and reports are addressed. Survey results from the Ravitch and Finn, the Chandler, and the National Catholic Educational Association studies reflecting student ignorance of social studies knowledge are discussed.…

Since an individual's ability to think critically most often manifests itself orally, research on sex differences should not overlook interpersonal communication styles and patterns in relation to the critical thought process. Any such examination should (1) define critical reasoning as it exists within Western society; (2) examine perceptions of…

History is the study of the past; some of the past is more recent than a glance over many schemes of work might lead us to think. Chris Culpin makes the case for ignoring the 20 year rule and tackling head on--and, crucially, "historically"--the big issues of the very recent past. He shows that critical historical study is precisely what…

The real aim of the study of history is to enable students to develop conviction about their values and beliefs. To promote this end, the teacher must take a strong hand in helping students identify the broad themes that they should trace in their reading and class discussion. The point of discussion is to organize facts and develop…

This report is designed to bring schoolmen and other interested citizens up to date on sensitive areas where religion and public education frequently touch off heated debate, therefore it probes the question of school prayers, teaching of evolution, classroom study of the Bible, as well as the pros and cons of government aid to nonpublic…

Claims that most instruction dealing with genetics is limited to sex education and personal hygiene. Suggests that the biology curriculum should begin to deal with other issues related to genetics, including genetic normality, prenatal diagnoses, race, and intelligence. Predicts these topics will begin to appear in British examination programs.…

Discusses why creation science could be discussed in a high school biology class. Examines the debate that exists between scientific creationists, biblical literalists, and traditional scientists regarding the teaching of creation science in schools. Describes how discussion of this debate could help students understand the nature of science. (CW)

Surveys the content of 13 elementary social studies methods texts published between 1981 and 1988. Disregarding quality or length of coverage, Breiter identifies common topics in social studies methods texts as well as social/controversial issues and skills coverage. Suggests how this information might be used in text selection or course renewal…

Claims that undergraduate curricula show a tension between a commitment to diversity and a commitment to coherence. Argues that the issues of "minority" students--including Blacks, homosexuals, and women--must be included to teach the value of encountering, listening to, and establishing a connection with different lifestyles and…

Discusses a number of obstacles that limit effective education for reducing the incidence of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) in the United States. Includes behaviors that must be changed, disagreement about the propriety of educational messages to prevent AIDS, and uncertainty as to some of the dual messages of reassurance being…

Presents the results of an interview which asked 15 South Africans what United States teachers should be teaching about South Africa. Correlates the eight major points made by the South Africans with the contents of the theme articles in this issue of SOCIAL EDUCATION. Includes a list of curriculum materials which covers the issues teachers should…