The Language of Social Studies Education

Social studies is a discipline unique to K-12 education and tasked with the preparation of democratic citizens. Social studies educators work with concepts, theories, and ideas from multiple disciplines across the social sciences and humanities, which makes discourse through shared language complex. Specialization in content areas that comprise the social studies can further complicate shared understanding of essential terms.

The Language of Social Studies Education offers essential information for key concepts organized to reflect the contemporary context of K-12 social studies education. The concepts found within this volume reflect the breadth of the discipline while also providing the foundational knowledge needed to develop deeper understanding. Each entry is based on multiple sources that invite the reader to pursue their interests through further inquiry.

This book will appeal to those who are looking for concise information based on respected scholarship from disciplines across the social studies. Even seasoned social studies practitioners will find its entries helpful for incorporating new concepts, ideas, and approaches into their discourses on citizenship education.

Jason L. Endacott, Ph.D. (2007), University of Kansas, is Associate Professor of Secondary Social Studies Education at the University of Arkansas. His scholarship focuses on epistemologies of history education and students’ engagement in historical empathy.

Michael A. Kopish, Ph.D. (2011), University of Wisconsin-Madison, is Associate Professor of Teacher Education at Ohio University. He is an author or co-author of book chapters and peer-reviewed articles on service learning, global citizenship education, and teacher preparation.