The purpose of this study is to investigate the general trends of master dissertations written in Social Studies Education and performed in 2008-2014 years in terms of thematic and methodology. Document review was performed in study. The study group was included in all the master's thesis recorded at thesis database of Higher Education Council…

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of using multiple writing-to-learn activities on the critical thinking skills and dispositions of prospective teachers. For this purpose, the current study employed an embedded mixed-methods design and was carried out with 34 prospective Social Studies teachers who are studying at a public…

Social studies education plays an important role in preparing students for a diverse, pluralistic democratic citizenry (NCSS 2010). While the field has made some gains in addressing the needs of various marginalized communities within the curriculum, there has been very little progress in incorporating LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender,…

Elementary teachers face the challenging task of meeting state curriculum standards while at the same time attempting to expand ideas that are inclusive of the wider world. True inquiry is "experienced when those involved [do] not know the answers that lay at the end of their exploration". Guiding children into true inquiry is difficult…

In the current era of high-stakes testing and accountability, many social studies teachers struggle to find creative ways to add depth and authenticity to a broad, shallow curriculum. Teachers can use the time after tests are administered for students to reflect back on the social studies curriculum and select topics they want to study more deeply…

Enriching the existing course offerings through laboratory lessons may be a more efficacious means of coping with ever-increasing data. To help students move through the maze of subject matter, teachers can simulate the kinds of laboratories used by behavioral scientists. (Author)

Describes a study unit involving research in the community by twelve year old students on mercy killing. Teacher accountability determined the outcome of the objectives. (JB)

Contends that oral history projects are an effective way of teaching history. Provides suggestions on setting up an oral history project, selecting topics, conducting background research, and conducting interviews. Includes a bibliography of resources for both students and teachers. (CFR)

Presents a lesson that focuses on Lithuanian efforts to gain their freedom and their role in the collapse of the Soviet Union. Describes various learning activities that foster understanding of this topic, such as having the students dramatize important events in Lithuania's struggle for independence. (CMK)

This article discusses how teachers can use project-based learning to teach social studies to gifted students. Because children select the topic, it is argued the inquiry is more meaningful to children. The roles of teachers and students in project-based classrooms are described, along with an elementary school's Japanese Exhibit project.…

Suggests the use of key historical antisocial acts to teach social studies concepts as a means of arousing the interest of adolescents. Recommends overcoming initial sensationalism by shifting emphasis to more appropriate interests. Includes discussion of the Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy assassinations and the Rosenberg spy case. Suggests…

Part 5 of this five part project helps students of the Tasmanian region of Australia explore the history of Port Arthur, a 19th century penal colony located in Tasmania. The project is based on three ideas: (1) studying history can be educational and enjoyable; (2) imagination is an essential part of studying history; and (3) history is most of…

The National History Day Program (NHDP) is designed to promote student competency and interest in carrying out original research while improving student achievement and critical thinking skills. Students select a topic, conduct research, and prepare a presentation for regional, state, and national competitions. The present research focused on…

Recommends using time bonding (finding a role model and researching the process and story behind that individual's accomplishments) as a means to interest students in history. Outlines the instructions covering the objectives of the writing assignments. Students researched a variety of biographies including Jackie Robinson and Lyndon Johnson. (MJP)

This document presents part 4 of a five part project in which students of the Tasmanian region of Australia are invited to explore the history of Port Arthur, a 19th century penal colony located in Tasmania. The project is based on three ideas: (1) studying history can be educational and enjoyable; (2) imagination is an essential part of studying…