While the remarkable accomplishments of Benjamin Franklin are unparalleled, the means of their attainment can be considered more accessible to ordinary people and not necessarily attributable to a special genius. The steady development of Franklin's knowledge and skills is traced in light of a new model of "dynamic learning," which is a method…

One of the most important and difficult challenges facing social studies educators, particularly world history teachers, concerns the role of Islam--one of the world's fastest growing and most dynamic religions--in historical and contemporary domestic and international affairs. What teachers choose to teach about Islam and how they present it are…

American society is deeply rooted in the belief that differences of all types--religious, cultural, physical, political--should be promoted in ways that serve not to divide or erode but to unify and strengthen. The premise for that American ideal is the promise and potential of difference. Although difference is often embraced, it can also be…

Presents a study of United States History textbooks that identifies possible shortcomings of several readability formulas as tools in determining the appropriateness of reading materials. Suggests additional factors to consider when selecting textbooks and techniques to help students understand reading materials. (AEM)

Reports a study reviewing the status of social studies education within selected special education programs. Identifies factors effecting social studies programs in special education and argues the importance of social studies instruction for handicapped students. (AEM)

Examines possible and desirable directions for computer use in the social studies and identifies what software is presently being used. Investigates how closely the aims of social studies match present software selection. Explores future possibilities for the development of software in social studies. (RKM)

Describes a new national electronic database to help social studies teachers locate up-to-date materials in global/international education. Called SCAN (System for Communication and Networking), the database was developed by Global Perspectives in Education. (RKM)

Reviews current computer applications in education. Discusses research on the socio-psychological aspects of computer usage. Analyzes and assesses to what extent computers can contribute to social studies goals. Develops an agenda of priorities for computer usage in social studies. (RKM)

Describes the experiences of a sixth grade history class in learning about archaeology by planning and executing a small local dig. Offers advice on class preparation, excavation procedures, follow-up work, and the display of artifacts. Includes eight photographs of classroom and field work activities. (AEM)

Describes a teleconference between U.S. students and students from other countries. Points out that current world issues became more relevant for U.S. students. Stresses the value of international telephone technology to show students the relationship of their ideas and values with those of young people from around the world. (GG)