2: Building a Rationale for Issues-Centered Education

Despite the diversity of definitions and contrasting views in the social studies field, most social studies educators agree that preparation for citizenship is our most important goal. However, we do not agree on how to define citizenship nor how to reach such a goal. While some define citizenship as loyalty to the nation, others promote issues-centered education, which hopes to prepare citizens who, consistent with democratic principles, are informed but skeptical and will become critical decision makers in public life. The author is among those who strongly support issues-centered education.

Issues-centered education is a curriculum that uses public issues to emphasize controversial questions as the content for social studies. It is an approach toward teaching and learning that does not intend to provide right answers, but underscores the need for students to learn how to examine significant questions and become more thoughtful decision makers about public life. An issues-centered approach highlights the critical examination of social practices through the direct study of persistent and compelling social issues. It requires analysis and evaluation of evidence, values, and decision making.