Philosophy of Social Studies Education Teachers have one of the greatest honors in American society in that they hold

the ability to help shape and cultivate the future of our nation. Educators not only hold this honor, but responsibility as well to ensure that their students walk away more knowledgeable than when they entered the classroom early in the school year. Knowledge does not simply refer to comprehension of subject matter or application of classroom curriculum. Knowledge refers to anything that students learn, including course material, life skills, and even moral values. Understanding that teachers roles expand beyond simply teaching content that students will use on an exam helps teachers come into their role as educators of many areas of student life. Social Studies teachers have a unique opportunity in terms of their roles as educators. The content material encompassed within Social Studies curriculum often complements life lessons, including areas such as social justice, within the course material. That means that Social Studies teachers often find opportunities for teachable moments where they are able to draw connection between coursework and applications that are relevant in society. These tangents may find connections between Social Studies curriculum and events that are simultaneously occurring in the world, and it is the role of the teacher to challenge students moral compass by forcing them to consider how they would handle situations in the real world. Not only does this help students grow ethically and intellectually, it reaffirms that the subject matter encompassed within the realm of Social Studies is one that is current, relevant, and important to learn. The role of teachers is a purposeful one: to educate students in areas relevant to their future or lives. Particularly in the area of Social Studies, it is crucial that both students and teachers understand why this content area is taught. It is important for all students, regardless of their future goals or profession to receive a Social Studies education in order to become integral, informed, and influential citizens in their societies and larger world. Social Studies help students develop an understanding about their own Democratic values, beliefs, and dispositions. I believe that the approach of citizenship transmission is the most effective mechanism to educate and empower students simultaneously by conveying the importance of course understanding to future progression of societal beliefs. Social justice is another important aspect; however, I believe that it can be tied in with the approach of citizenship transmission because of their close correlation and push toward cultivating efficacious students. Conveying this information in an effective way is crucial as well. The single-discipline approach is the most effective way to educate student about particular information. While I strongly support and believe in the ideology surrounding the multidisciplinary approach, I think that the most effective teaching mechanism is employing the single-discipline approach while drawing in multidisciplinary areas of learning. For example, while teaching a history class that may discuss Nazi Germany, it may be effective to touch upon the psychology employed throughout this time period in order to get a more well rounded, real life understanding of what happened rather than simply understanding facts. All disciplines within the realm of Social Studies connect with one another, and it is effective when teachers take the extra step to draw in these other topics in order for students to gain a full understanding. Likewise, implementing up to date technology, interactive projects and demonstrations, and real life examples helps keep the class more relevant and enjoyable.

In a modernizing society, technology should play a large role in the classroom. In order for students to be well versed in technology and up to date with developments, the same expectation should be held for teachers. Incorporating communication devices that engage students through online sources, such as Wikis, blogs, or social media, are perfect mechanisms to use to make education current and relevant. Likewise, technology makes education much more engaging for modern students. Using creativity and taking the time to master several different technological tools helps teachers not only stand out, but also truly relate to current students. In todays classroom, there are many different types of students, and it is the responsibility of teachers to understand that every student has different strengths and needs. Accommodating for students who have special needs, are gifted, or are located anywhere on the spectrum is an essential quality teachers must maintain. Incorporating technology into these accommodations can be a useful tool to reach the needs of all students. However, merely taking the time to understand each student and what he or she needs to succeed is a quality that the greatest teachers possess. Relating to students as individuals is an essential quality teachers must hold to foster the greatest learning. Finally, in order to be an effective teacher, one must carry him or herself in a positive, admirable manner. This includes respecting students, treating them fairly, and eliminating any hidden curriculum that may negatively affect student morale or a classroom environment. Teaching is a job greater than any other profession because it truly is more than simply a job but rather a lifestyle of encouragement, selflessness, and serving oneself to truly assist with the betterment of others and society as a whole.