"There's no way we can teach all of this": Factors that influence secondary history teachers' content choices

This mixed-methods study explored the factors secondary history teachers use to determine historical content for their classrooms and the degree of perceived control in decision-making. Through a survey (N = 260) and follow-up interviews (n = 23), we found that secondary history teachers in the Unit...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Published inTheory and research in social education Vol. 49; no. 2; pp. 227 - 261
Main Authors Girard, Brian, Harris, Lauren McArthur, Mayger, Linda Kay, Kessner, Taylor M., Reid, Stephanie
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Routledge 03.04.2021
Subjects
Accountability
Case Studies
Context Effect
Course Content
Curriculum
Decision Making
Educational Policy
history education
History Instruction
Pedagogical Content Knowledge
Professional Autonomy
Relevance (Education)
Secondary School Teachers
Social Studies
Student Interests
Teacher Attitudes
Teacher Surveys
teaching
Online AccessGet full text

Cover

More Information
Summary:This mixed-methods study explored the factors secondary history teachers use to determine historical content for their classrooms and the degree of perceived control in decision-making. Through a survey (N = 260) and follow-up interviews (n = 23), we found that secondary history teachers in the United States ranked historical significance most highly in their curricular decision-making, but the extent to which teachers felt they were able to exert control over curricular decisions was influenced by required assessments and other contextual factors. Nevertheless, many teachers also prioritized student interest and relevance when choosing historical content. Interviews revealed complexity in teachers' thinking and additional context-specific (dis)incentives (e.g., fear of controversy) regarding curricular choices. Implications for teacher education and policy are emphasized.
ISSN:0093-3104
2163-1654
DOI:10.1080/00933104.2020.1855280