A recent study that surveyed close to 500 Alberta social studies teachers concluded that irreconcilable pressures "point to tensions between the formal program of studies and its prescribed outcomes, and the realities and complexities of classrooms where teachers attempt to realize good practices" (Alberta Teachers' Association, 2016, p,…

The latest round in Canada's History Wars was set off by reports on May 2, 2013, that the Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage was going to "undertake a thorough and comprehensive review of significant aspects in Canadian history." As details of the Heritage Committee's review emerged, controversy erupted as politicians, historians,…

The dreams and predictions of a digital classroom never quite materialized in the social studies history area. For a variety of reasons teachers keep the technology just outside the door peeking in but never truly welcomed. Not welcomed because of the nature of courseware initially offered, not welcomed because the technology was advanced for the…

This article addresses the second-order concept of "historical significance" and attempts to answer the question of what criteria are used to make decisions about it in history and school history. Specifically, it explores the way Francophone and Anglophone students ascribe significance to selected historical events in Canada and…

Reports on current educational issues in Quebec (Canada). Briefly covers some of the major issues addressed in the Estates General, the commission study on the future of education in Quebec. A Montreal School commissioner challenged the government's numbers concerning dropouts. Decentralization, whole language learning, and school rankings also…

Relates current attempts in the province of Quebec (Canada) to eliminate religious school boards in favor of linguistically-based boards. Claims that the processes employed by the Quebec government to do so subvert the Canadian constitution. Argues for retaining the old religious boards and rejecting linguistic- or ethnic-based educational…

Describes classroom activities designed to make an elementary class' study of people's contributions to Alberta's (Canada) history more culturally relevant for both the native and non-native students. The activities centered on student research of famous local people of the past. The projects included writing assignments, interviews, and artworks.…

Asserts that social studies often emphasizes abstract concepts illustrated with obscure historical references. Argues that the introduction of feminist issues of social justice, exploitation, violence, and power can galvanize many of the central issues of social studies. Considers the use of language and how it restricts and validates certain…

Identifies British Fabian-Socialism and French gauchisme (a hybrid of Marxism and existentialism) as the political-philosophical antecedents of the Quebec separatist movement. Argues that the current movement has scrapped these influences in favor of racial-ethnic nationalism and has embarked on a campaign of rabble-rousing propaganda. (MJP)

Criticizes the recent trend of six-figure-plus salaries for higher education administrators in Canada. Maintains that these salaries reflect neither market value nor individual performance but rather result from aggressive self-promotion and institutional chicanery. Argues that those individuals motivated primarily by money should work in the…

Briefly discusses the adjustment process that non-native teachers go through when teaching Canadian native students. Notes some of the cultural differences between the two groups including concepts of time, conflict resolution, and respect. Concludes that the ever-changing nature of native culture requires teachers to be flexible. (MJP)

Attempts to sort out and address many of the issues, controversies, and concerns surrounding Ontario's adoption of a common curriculum. Finds confusion and factionalism on both sides exacerbated by a preponderance of jargon. Identifies and defines key features of the common curriculum. (MJP)

Portrays the current social studies curriculum reform in British Columbia as a process hampered by disagreements over the input and participation of teachers. Charts the deterioration of this process culminating in the British Columbia Social Studies Teachers' Association's withdrawal from the process. (MJP)

Provides a brief overview of the educational conditions in Canada's Yukon Territory and discusses their effect on curriculum development. Describes three social studies curriculum projects from inception to completion. The projects are "Our Land Too: Women of Canada and the Northwest 1860-1914"; "Klondike Gold"; and…

Observes that decisions to cut bureaucratic waste in Canada's educational system rests with the bureaucracy itself. Maintains that most schools could productively institute a limited form of teacher-oriented self-administration, thereby reducing and streamlining educational administration. Argues that most educational administration is…