Social Studies Education in the 21st Century

What content area explains us as human beings, connects us to our world, tells us where we’ve been and helps us to understand where we are going & why, and explains the reasons for the choices we make and the ways we organize our lives?

The answer is social studies education!

The digital age has transformed social studies education, allowing 21st-century learners to transcend the limits of time and place and experience historic events virtually. By expanding their learning networks through online collaboration with experts and other students from around the world, Newark Public School students develop an increased depth of understanding of our global society. At the same time, their understanding of the fundamental principles and values of American democracy and citizenship provides the conceptual framework that allows them to make informed decisions about local, national, and international issues and challenges.

Mission: Social studies education provides learners with the knowledge, skills, and perspectives needed to become active, informed citizens and contributing members of local, state, national, and global communities in the digital age.

Vision: An education in social studies fosters a population that:

• Is civic minded, globally aware, and socially responsible.
• Exemplifies fundamental values of American citizenship through active participation in local and global communities.
• Makes informed decisions about local, state, national, and global events based on inquiry and analysis.
• Considers multiple perspectives, values diversity, and promotes cultural understanding.
• Recognizes the implications of an interconnected global economy.
• Appreciates the global dynamics between people, places, and resources.
• Utilizes emerging technologies to communicate and collaborate on career and personal matters with citizens of other world regions.

Intent and Spirit of the Social Studies Education in Newark Public Schools

All students receive social studies instruction from Preschool through grade 12. The challenges of the 21st century are complex, have global implications, and are connected to people, places, and events of the past. The study of social studies focuses on deep understanding of concepts that enable students to think critically and systematically about local, regional, national, and global issues.

Authentic learning experiences that enable students to apply content knowledge, develop citizenship skills, and collaborate with students from around the world prepare Newark students for the 21st-century workplace. The natural integration of technology in social studies education allows students to overcome geographic borders, apply scientific and mathematical analysis to historical questions and contemporary issues, appreciate cultural diversity, and experience events through the examination of primary sources.