Rethinking History Education W/ Scott Powell & Heather Schwarz

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Heather Schwarz and Scott Powell are co-founders of the online school Knowable World.

Embark on a journey through time with Scott Powell and Heather Schwartz as we unravel how a deep understanding of history can illuminate the complexities of today's world. Scott, with his books "The History of Now" and "The History of Tomorrow," deftly challenges the notion of present centrism, while Heather's Knowable World curriculum seeks to arm the younger generation with the historical context needed to navigate modern global events. Together, we dissect the integration of history and social studies, pondering how we can transform education to help students grasp the underpinnings of current world affairs and become well-informed citizens.

Throughout our conversation, we address the challenges educators face in creating curriculums that are both comprehensive and relevant. The traditional approach to teaching history often leaves students adrift in a sea of disconnected facts, but through the lens of present centrism, we propose a more structured methodology. We discuss the idea of a three-year rotating curriculum covering major cultural blocks and delve into the delicate balance between celebrating multicultural narratives and understanding the weight of pivotal historical events.

As we pull back the curtain on various educational approaches, we spotlight the importance of instilling a strong historical foundation from a young age. From the influence of Ancient Greece to the significance of China, we explore how these rich cultural histories shape our understanding of the world. In closing, we underscore the need for empowering curricula that encourage critical thinking and provide third graders through to twelfth graders with the tools to interpret their world. Discover how history, when taught with a present-centric view, can lead to a more interconnected and insightful perspective on the world we share.