Comparison of elementary social studies curricula of Turkey and the United States on values education

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to compare the social studies teaching curricula of Turkey and the United States in terms of values education. The study is a model case study that relies upon one of the qualitative research methods. The data come from the elementary social studies curricula of both countries through the documents analysis method. The results of the study demonstrate that the social studies' curriculum of Turkey has more emphasis on individual and social values such as sensitivity, responsibility, solidarity, science, philanthropy, and patriotism, etc. On the other hand, the social studies curricula of the United States lays more emphasis on individual and social values such as sensitivity, science, responsibility, solidarity, and respect for individual rights, as well as democratic values such as diversity (difference), public good, and prevention of conflict. © 2012 Educational Consultancy and Research Center.