Epilogue

A fundamental goal of schools in this democratic nation is to educate young citizens in order that self-governance can flourish. In support of this goal, one that is essential for this democracy, the purpose of this book is to improve school curricula, particularly in social studies; to strengthen the quality of citizen participation. This Issues-Centered Decision Making Curriculum seeks to accomplish this goal by emphasizing knowledge of significant social and controversial issues as well as expanding the development of intellectual and political abilities needed by young citizens to address the challenges of the new century. It draws heavily on the teachings of John Dewey using student interests to study relevant issues, engaging student-citizens in seeking solutions to both personal and public issues in a reasoned and evidence-based way. It encourages, but does not mandate belief in democratic values associated with social justice—equality, equity, fairness and freedom.