History and Geography Course Requirements of Elementary Education Programs: A Descriptive Analysis

• In Event: Roundtable Session 26
  In Roundtable Session: Issues in Teacher Education and Social Studies

Abstract

This descriptive analysis of 1,137 undergraduate elementary education programs across the United States emphasizes the disparity between required history and geography courses. Acknowledging assertions of geography education researchers regarding a lack of training in geographic content and pedagogy, this study aims to provide quantifiable data to either accept or reject that claim. Program requirements and general education requirements were collected for each institution. The results indicate that 81 percent of elementary teachers graduates are not trained to teach state or national geography standards. Statistically significant trends between states, regions, and private vs. public schools were found. Results are followed by implications and discussion about a “history obsessed” curriculum that does not foster the knowledge, skills, and dispositions of social studies.

Author

• Patrick Womac, Clemson University