In this article, the author shares her research, as well as the work of other scholars, on social studies education narratives that portray individuals as heroes or villains and the effect these portrayals may have on students. These narratives not only stifle students' feelings of civic agency, but they minimize the role of community in creating…

An examination of the ways moral education was taught in elementary public schools during the first three decades of the century suggests that moral education should be (1) indirect--not taught as a isolated subject; (2) comprehensive--include all aspects of school life; and (3) broadly conceived--moral education is multifaceted. (RM)

Examines, with power and warmth, the obiligations and achievements of social studies in meeting the moral, life-or-death crisis in which we are all involved. (JB)

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)

Contends that the development and use of moral imagination helps students become sensitive to social justice issues and should be encouraged. Asserts that this process will encourage students to become cognizant of the tension between private beliefs and public behavior. (CFR)

Recommends using literature, Supreme Court cases, and moral dilemmas in a debate format as means of instruction for character education. Includes a rationale and examples for each approach. Explains several guiding values (respect for persons, justice, telling the truth) and their relevance to character education. (MJP)

Reveals that teaching about controversial issues increases students' self-confidence and interest in civic participation. Asserts that the current proliferation of social problems combined with exploitative media coverage necessitates civil and objective study of controversial issues. Includes several examples of, and approaches to, teaching about…