Historical Values

Abstract

This article notes the confusion of skills‐oriented curriculum planning when it comes to considering the place of attitudes or values in school History. The possible contribution of values clarification to school History is critically discussed. An approach informing children on values issues and stimulating discussion congruent with History's values is preferred. It is suggested that the content implied by such an approach will consist in the main of topics of cultural centrality. Then school History might become less worried about the practice of skills and show interest in the study of value‐infused (and hence important) issues. Emphasis on History's values would further the move away from concern about skills, the tools of the historian, and revive discussion about the ends of school History as a distinctive study.