Integrating Social Studies and Science: A Natural or Unnatural Fit?

Abstract

Two elementary teacher educators redesigned a methods course to integrate social studies and science. Using the framework of science-technology-society (STS) literature and the major themes from Paul Hurd, social studies and science content and methodology converge to create an integrated curriculum for preservice teachers. Concepts, processes, content knowledge, skills, and critical issues are among the interrelated themes of the course. This paper describes the design of the course and discusses how preservice teachers internalized the content. In addition, the successes and challenges of creating and teaching the course along with implications for teacher education are discussed.

Citation

Wilson, E.K. and Cook, T. (2008), "Integrating Social Studies and Science: A Natural or Unnatural Fit?", Social Studies Research and Practice, Vol. 3 No. 3, pp. 113-122. https://doi.org/10.1108/SSRP-03-2008-B0010