Why Teach HSIE? My beliefs...
Simply put, HSIE teaches students how to interact with and understand the world in which they live, from a micro to macro level. With the technological changes heralded by 21st Century and the emergence of globalization, it has never been more poignant for educators to effectively teach HSIE and prepare their students to become global citizens. Through innovative, relevant and inquiry based approaches, HSIE helps students gather a deep understanding of the factors that have shaped their world, including culture, community, environment, history, civics, citizenship and economics. From Kindergarten to Year 6, HSIE challenges students to engage with these topics in a socially just manner, providing them with strong moral foundations that promote apathy and acceptance, giving students the tools to succeed in an ever changing and complex world. The learning opportunities provided by HSIE “help develop students as active, informed and responsible citizens who will work towards promoting a democratic and socially just society in a sustainable environment at local, national and global levels” (Board of Studies, 2006, p. 13)
Reference: Board of Studies NSW. (2006). Human Society & Its Environment K-6 Syllabus. Sydney: Board of Studies.
Reference: Board of Studies NSW. (2006). Human Society & Its Environment K-6 Syllabus. Sydney: Board of Studies.