A Handbook for History Teachers

History is not a mere chronicle of facts, but a dialogue between competing interpretations of the past; it should be taught as such. Teaching history in this way makes it both intellectually demanding and more interesting, while at the same time helps students acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to become functioning citizens in a democracy. The opening chapters provide the rationale for the study of history, its epistemological basis, and the logic of the discipline. The bulk of the book deals with practical ways to help students acquire, process, and apply information. In particular, it addresses the specific thinking skills required by the discipline, with many effective techniques for helping students to master them. The implications of this approach for teacher evaluation of student work are also addressed.

James A. Duthie was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, and earned an M.A. in history from the University of Edinburgh. After working for several years, he trained as a teacher at the University, of Victoria and began teaching in 1978. Now retired, his interests include the study of history, writing, choral singing, gardening, and keeping fit.