Exposing students to big data analysis through the Library of Congress’s Chronicling America website can be an effective way to study historical trends such as changing U.S. sentiment towards Germany in World War I.
Researching the landmark Tinker v. Des Moines case about free speech in the Vietnam era can launch an engaging classroom debate on the First Amendment and the civil rights of students.
Studying the phenomenon of Bitcoin offers an excellent jumping off point for an economics lesson on asset value, fundamental value, and speculative bubbles.
A close look at the topic of foreign trade—its pros and cons—can give students a deeper understanding of why economists and politicians often disagree on the matter
The role of the Federal Reserve and how it influences our economy can stimulate an interesting classroom discussion on the importance of price stability, employment levels, and interest rates.
Disruptive Technologies and the Social Studies Classroom
To best prepare social studies students for democratic citizenship and civic participation, we need to equip them with strategies for critically consuming online media.
Immersive virtual reality experiences offer an innovative approach to oral history and can foster students’ emotional connection with distant historical events.
The process of researching, designing, and presenting 3D models related to people, places, or events can dramatically expand students’ experience of social studies topics.