This Handbook outlines the current state of research in social studies education - a complex, dynamic, challenging field with competing perspectives about appropriate goals, and on-going conflict over the content of the curriculum. Equally important, it encourages new research in order to advance the field and foster civic competence; long maintained by advocates for the social studies as a fundamental goal.

In considering how to organize the Handbook, the editors searched out definitions of social studies, statements of purpose, and themes that linked (or...