The Social and Behavioral Sciences in K-12 Education: Past, Present, and Future: Proceedings of a Workshop–in Brief
Synopsis
The ability to meet many of society’s challenges requires an understanding of human behavior. From health to education to business to homeland security, the social and behavioral sciences (SBS)—which include psychology, political science, economics, anthropology, and sociology—contribute to solving important problems for individuals, organizations, and society. Although they are taught widely at the university level, they have far less presence in K-12 education where students’ core knowledge is shaped.
To better understand contemporary efforts and to build upon earlier efforts to explore the presence of SBS in K-12 education, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine held a meeting in November 2016. The event brought together representatives of leading SBS organizations and leaders in science and social studies education to explore common interests in K-12 education and consider opportunities to work together to achieve shared goals. This publication briefly summarizes the presentations and discussions of the workshop.
