The Iowa Council for the Social Studies Journal Vol 21, Fall 2008
Theme: Social Studies Always at the Core
Forward Lynn E. Nielsen, University of Northern Iowa
Social Studes: Always at the Core Cheryl Mullenbach
Cheryl Mullenbach looks at the enduring place of social studies in the curriculum. Starting with the work of the 1892 Committee of Ten, Cheryl walks us through the evolving process whereby social studies emerged from such curricular staples as history, civil government, political economy and geography. She reminds us that many of the daunting questions facing educators in 1892 still challenge educators today.
The Core of Elementary Social Studies: Something New on the Horizon David Johns
David Johns provides a grassroots review of the process the Des Moines School District employed when reinventing the district's approach to elementary social studies. Finding new horizons in a conceptual approach to the curriculum, David describes the curricular processes and products developed as a result of this initiative.
Jill Nooren provides the reader with a review of the important place children's literature holds in the development of the social studies curriculum. Using literature to teach social studies is a effective strategy for mediating the unintended consequences of NCLB-leaving social studies behind.
Curt Nielsen introduces us to the most current technological developments in geography education. Geospatial technologies (GST) hold promise for the future of geographic education as technological advances provide unprecedented opportunities for student learning.
Hou Chun Kuong of Hong Kong, articulates her commitment to cultural sensitivity by highlighting the importance of cultural and contextual understanding
Khalfan Alharrasi of Oman, shares his challenging and daunting experience learning American culture. Having been raised in the Middle East he relates how perceptions, customs, values and ideas shape the character of a culture.
Former Iowan, Darren Kieschnick shares his experience teaching social studies to elementary students in Texas where testing looms large on the curricular horizon. He advocates for conscious restoration of social studies in the elementary curriculum.