Using local history in the secondary school social studies curriculum

This dissertation demonstrates the feasibility of using local history in the secondary school United States history course. A number of techniques have been developed to help teachers find and use local history sources in the classroom. Lesson plans which can be utilized in United States history courses are included.;Chapter 1 discusses the history of the teaching of local history. Chapter 2 addresses some general considerations underlying the use of local history. These include the relevance and scope of local history in the classroom, the value of teaching local history, and reasons for its rejection by secondary school teachers. Chapter 3 identifies some key local history teaching sources including: the use of primary sources (census reports, local histories, maps, newspapers), oral history, museum visits, and material culture. Chapter 4 demonstrates how these teaching sources were specifically used by students in Byron High School, a 9-12 high school of 430 students in Byron, Illinois. Chapter 5 analyzes tests and surveys of student achievement and attitudes, makes recommendations for professional development, and suggests ways to increase the use of local history in the nation's secondary schools.;The author concludes that local history units can be successfully integrated into the American history classroom without loss of information about national and international events; that local history can increase interest in history among high school students; and that use of local history can sharpen skills important in the study of history and other areas.