Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Final Manifesto 4/24/08 10:00 AM

TLT 431 introduced our class of 4 to a wide variety of teaching methodologies integrated with social studies content. I would recommend this course for any pre service or post service teacher because it breaks the discipline barrier. The recommendations Dr. Hammond incorporated in this course include: critical thinking activities, thought organizers, use of film and art, field trips. Reflecting on this interdisciplinary exploration of Social Studies methods I alter my initial manifesto, slightly.

I believe:
Social studies philosophy rivals Environmental Education’s place as the epitome of interdisciplinary investigation if utilized progressively. Social Studies is a discipline of many disciplines, ranging from anthropology to economics to history to psychology that can be taught in a linear, thematic or issue-based manner. Through investigation of historic, current, and projected phenomena social studies instructors can create a holistic approach wrapping together humanities, mathematics, earth systems and astronomical sciences. Social studies supports use of teaching methodologies from across disciplines to emulate “thinking like a (Fill in the Expertise)” and promotes development of skills necessary to become a literate and active citizenry. By exploring the deep knowledge base and investigating multiple perspectives, students of social studies follow the thread connecting choice, behavior, and relations to other humans, animal and plant species, and physical environment. By examining and understanding how place influences the origin and development of cultures, ethics, religions we can better understand past choices regarding consumption, environmental modification, and human interactions and look ahead to make informed literate decisions which will benefit the public good based on global perspectives.

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