"Actual People's Lives": Simulations and Critical Consciousness in World History, American History, and Economics

• In Event: 43.079 - Sheraton Roundtable Session Six - Grand Centre
  In Roundtable Session: 43.079-9 - Experiencing the Social Studies

Abstract

This study examines the use and understanding of critical simulations by preservice social studies teachers as an effort to facilitate a critical consciousness. Data indicate that preservice teachers utilized simulations to not only enhance their students’ engagement in social studies content, but to push for a more democratic dialogue within the classroom and to critique systems of power. Social studies teachers and teacher educators must consider the manner in which their simulations are employed to avoid enshrining the status quo, and instead consider how to tailor simulations in ways that challenge oppression and represent a more humanizing vision of social studies.

Authors

• Cinthia S. Salinas, The University of Texas at Austin

• Neil Shanks, Baylor University

• Kevin Russel Magill, Baylor University