Enhancing the Social Studies Curriculum with Technology By Jill O’Meara

What is Social Studies? Social Studies is defined as the integrated study of the social sciences and humanities in order to promote civic competence. The purpose of teaching social Studies is to help young people make well informed decisions as members of a diverse and democratic society.

Social Studies Disciplines Taught in Our Schools: Anthropology Archaeology Geography Religion Law Philosophy Political Science Sociology Economics Psychology History Civics

The Challenges of Teaching Social Studies Social Studies is not taught consistently among grade levels. There is a large amount of content to teach. Standards are not assessed on statewide tests. Social Studies Resources are very expensive. Determining the best way to utilize Technology Resources.

Strategies for Integrating Technology and Social Studies Simulated Problem Solving Information Visualization Virtual Field Trips Adventure Learning Digital Story Telling Digital Information Critiques Electronic Research Geospatial Analysis

What is Simulated Problem Solving and Visualization? Simulated Problem Solving is a resource where students can take part in authentic situations. The products introduce the students to real life problem solving situations where they must use background knowledge and apply the information they have learned. Visualization allows students to easily understand concepts through the use of pictures, symbols, colors, graphs, spreadsheets, and online sites.

What are Virtual Field Trips and Adventure Learning? Virtual Field Trips are experiences which can take place in the K-12 classroom through online sites. The students can experience real life situations and visit locations which many might not ever have the opportunity to see. Adventure Learning is a K-12 curriculum where students become explorers and travel through a virtual world. The students collaborate with other online learners to create a product and share information they have learned.

What is Digital Storytelling and Information Critiques? Digital Storytelling is creating a digital project using images and audio to tell the stories of lives, events, and eras. Information Critiques allows students the opportunity to develop skills in analyzing information and distinguishing fact from opinion. Information Critiques offer activities which help students build media literacy skills.

What is Electronic Research and Geospatial Analysis? Electronic Research teaches students to easily obtain information from the internet. Students must learn where to look in order to obtain reliable information online. Geospatial Analysis is a K-12 technology resource where students can view the world using programs such as Google Earth and ArcGIS.

The Importance of Teachers & Technology Knowledge Allows students to learn Social Studies Standards. Transforms the learners experiences. Makes learning more exciting and engaging. Brings real life situations into the classroom for students to experience. The teachers must understand the technology procedures in order to enhance the students learning.