History textbooks are controversial today. Many question the truth behind the books. Education critics question the construction of textbooks. Simply, the books are a compromise between experts, politicians, and others with competing agendas. Many history texts try to extract essential aspects that are complex and contrasting into simplistic accounts. Thus, facts develop into unpleasant truths. However, textbooks are still a popular method of instruction in schools.
History textbooks are written by academics and historians. Nonetheless, states play a role in the adoption process. State departments of education can request significant revisions from publishers. Unfortunately, many teachers are under a mandate to teach from a particular textbook. However, CBS News finds there are no national standards for social studies. Additionally, state standards do not mention slavery and some state standards do not mention the civil rights movement.
History Textbooks and Students
As states set expectations for what students learn, experts say it’s up to the individual school districts to decide on what to teach. Also, it’s up to the teachers to make it happen. Students must have access to social studies. This includes learning civics and history. Thus, they must understand issues that face society to be prepared for future jobs and responsibilities.
According to a Pew Research Center poll, people agree that acknowledgment of historical flaws makes America stronger. This information helps teachers to step beyond the textbook and engage students in upper-level discussions on historical events.
Educational goals encourage students to think critically. They must also be socially conscientious of democratic values. Studies show that students can’t learn the meaning of democratic values simply through a textbook. Classes in history must involve strategies to identify biases found in a textbook. Also, evaluate and identify misconceptions throughout American history.
Learning From the Past
History and social studies provide students with the opportunity to learn from past mistakes. Students can understand the behaviors of people. Thus, they are more empathetic as people. History gives students a sense of perspective as to their place in society. Consequently, the study of the past is a study of change.
