Toward Democracy: Social Studies and TPCK

            The author promotes the big idea that in social studies, technology is viewed “in the context of preparation for democratic life” (p. 130). The value of technology in the social studies classroom can’t be underestimated in spite of the fact that social studies “lacks clearly established academic or disciplinary structure” (p. 129).    For example social studies includes a variety of subjects: history, geography, political science, economics, behavioral sciences, and cultural studies.  In fact, the subject of social studies appears to be well suited for the use of technology, which makes this chapter especially inspiring to me.             

            The non-linear nature of technology requires special attention by the teacher to bring the goal of preparing students for democratic life to its fullest potential. Teachers must “be very detailed and deliberate as they make use of these materials” (p.131).  Because students are creating their own knowledge the teacher needs to assist students in making decisions about selecting their resources and navigating through a variety of interfaces. Teachers must be aware of the expanded opportunities for group learning that technology presents and “overcome existing pedagogical tendencies toward individualistic learning” (p.135).

            With regard to the impact of technology on the development of human communities and human interaction, “teachers need to prepare students in a technological age where democratic citizens have access to not only information but to the political process and authentic discourse and dialog about political issues” (p.138).  Emphasis on etiquette, responsibility, rights, safety and security is vitally important.  These statements are especially meaningful to me as a teacher and as a global citizen.

            Opportunities for using technology in social studies are abundant and can include:  weblogs, wikis, digital story telling, file sharing, online writing, historical source materials, and easy communication with experts. The opportunity to provide “students a public forum for their work enhances motivation and encourages authenticity” (p, 134). Because of this class and these readings, my student is going to benefit from my new awareness and motivation to provide a public forum for student work.