MCED 7330 - Social Studies in the Middle School

Three credit hours.

An in-depth study in social studies education in the middle grades (4-8). Builds on the belief that students need to construct knowledge in their own minds in order for it to be meaningful to them. Emphasis is placed on the meaningful learning of social studies content, skills, and values, in order to promote democratic behavior in early adolescents. Presentation of the theory and research explaining meaningful learning in social studies, the structure of knowledge to be learned, and strategies for effective and powerful social studies teaching. Candidates plan a developmentally appropriate hands-on experience with appropriate material and supportive environment necessary for children’s meaningful exploration and discovery.