Social Studies Education (Secondary) (SSES)

This course is available for students interested in becoming eligible for certification at the 7-12 level in social studies. Content covered includes theoretical propositions underlying pedagogical approaches; issues in diversity and social justice in the classroom; and instructional materials and teaching strategies for secondary social studies. A special project is required. Contact a social studies adviser for further information.

This course focuses on applied social studies methods; the course objectives are (1) that pre-service social studies teachers will learn about the rich resources found at museums, archives, and historic sites and (2) that they will have an opportunity to apply what they have learned in the program to developing curricular materials. There is a required field experience for which students are placed at Philadelphia area cultural institutions. Students will be developing collections and curriculum materials for schools and teachers in general and for National History Day. Class time will be devoted to strengthening and supporting the field experience.