Conceptual Framework forConceptual Framework forSocial Studies EducationSocial Studies Education

John F. vonEschenbach

State University of West Georgia

Social Studies Education Social Studies Education Definition and PurposeDefinition and Purpose

Social Studies is the integrated study of social sciences (anthropology, economics, geography, history, political science, psychology, and sociology), humanities, and sciences to promote civic competence.

Primary purpose is to help young people develop the ability to make informed and reasoned decisions for the public good.

Knowledge StrandsKnowledge Strands Culture Time, Continuity, and Change People, Places, and Environments Individual Development and Identity Individuals, Groups, and

Institutions

Knowledge Strands (con’t.)Knowledge Strands (con’t.)

Power, Authority, and Governance Production, Distribution, and

Consumption Science, Technology, and Society Global Connections and

Interdependence Civic Ideals and Practice

Social Attitudes and ValuesSocial Attitudes and Values

Develop a reasoned commitment to public values

Be able to deal with value conflicts Develop a reasoned loyalty to this nation Treat oneself and others with respect Develop a feeling of kinship to all humans

Civic Skills Civic Skills

Democratic Participation Skills Study Skills Intellectual Skills

Social Studies Education Social Studies Education RationaleRationale

Help children to explain their world through the social sciences, humanities, and sciences.

Provide a forum for children to understand and practice democracy.

Help children along the journey to positive self-development.

Allow children to develop effective and critical decision making strategies.

Social Studies ResourcesSocial Studies Resources

For description of Social Studies Education knowledge strands, go to:

http://www.socialstudies.org/standards/strands/ For worthwhile Social Studies Education

publications, go to:

http://www.socialstudies.org/publications/ For teacher resources, lesson plans, and trade books

for young learners, go to

http://www.socialstudies.org/classroom/