In light of the common mission of social studies education to prepare future democratic citizens, the field continues to be rooted in didactic and monologic practices. Finding an alibi in the current accountability movement that favors teaching about democracy instead of teaching through democracy, many social studies teachers have reneged on…

The future of the American experiment, and the life of the democratic republic that is the United States, is at risk. American citizens have endangered the republic by failing to educate new generations of citizens about civic responsibility. As early as the nineteenth century, the tension between individualism and American republican principles…

Discusses the kind of citizens a democratic society needs to preserve freedom and examines how a society can educate these citizens. Citizens must be literate beyond the 3Rs. For this to happen, the nation and the education establishment must regain an understanding of the concepts of adulthood, community, and meaning. (SR)

Our first public policy goal is to ensure our survival as a free nation through the development of enlightened citizens. If social studies teachers are to develop the goals of citizenship education, an articulated K-12 social studies program is necessary. The objectives and themes of such a program are discussed. (RM)

The term civic virtue has been used to encompass the complementary goals of educating good people and good citizens to foster good government. Although many have put forth proposals for developing civic virtue in young people, they have not always adequately tapped the rich resources that can lead to a better understanding of the term. A more…

A successful civic education program is one that educates citizens in the basic principles and precepts of the American political system and keeps citizens informed on specific issues and controversies. Jefferson and Lincoln both supported the sentiment that civic education must address basic principles as well as specific issues. (RM)

The possibility that technology can be used to provide qualified citizens direct access to and participation in political decision-making processes will influence the social studies curriculum like no other innovation or event in our history. Teachers must introduce basic concepts of responsibility and participation in terms of direct democracy.…

Discusses the conditions present during and after World War I which led to the creation of social studies as a discrete component in the U.S. school curriculum. Describes these conditions as a public awareness of impending crisis, perception of citizenship as a major social concern, alternatives to traditional citizenship education, and…

The "traditions" of the social studies--the "good citizenship" tradition and the disciplinary or social science tradition--are described. This description is followed by a discussion of the relationship between citizenship education and the social studies. The final section contains a description of the eight approaches to citizenship education.…

Examines democracy as a social and political system. Defines democracy as an evolving process that moves toward consensus whereby citizens exercise their sovereignty in government based on values and laws. Identifies two cornerstones of democracy: sovereignty of the people and individual rights. Explores the guardianship role of education in…

The history of social studies in the twentieth century is the story of a field of study not yet coming of age. As is true in most emerging fields, the first one hundred years of social studies has been marked by confusion, competing visions, inconsistency, incoherence, and intolerance. Many have considered the social studies' first century as…

Traces historical precedents of values development and citizenship education in the United States and Canada. Proposes a framework for democratic values education. Explores teaching methods and classroom environments that promote democratic citizenship education. Exhorts social studies educators to integrate teaching and learning in citizenship…

Argues that economic literacy is necessary for an informed opinion about the factors influencing our society and government. Maintains that, currently, high school students' misinformation about economic facts and their inability to perform economic analysis puts our economy at risk. Advocates increasing objective and nonpartisan economics…

After September 11, 2001, the Bush administration initiated large-scale electronic surveillance within the United States to gather intelligence to protect citizens from terrorists. Media commentary, public reaction, and classroom practices regarding this program have tended toward either-or positions: either for presidential power and national…

Argues that teaching authentic civic values in schools frequently requires teaching about controversial issues. Asserts that adequate teacher preparation and continued inservice education is essential for effective instruction about contemporary social problems. Includes two model lessons and a list of organizations that offer materials for civic…