The creation and re-creation of history is fundamental to human beings-both individually and collectively. Elaine Davis reveals to us just how profound is the process of constructing history by bringing together contemporary theory and practice from the fields of history, archaeology, and education. More importantly, this significant book portrays a new and more enlightened way for us to teach 'history' in a variety of settings-a way that honors the student as the agent of his or her own historical reality. -- Terry Roberts, Director, National Paideia Center
Dr. Elaine Davis's book provides evidence of the need for a paradigm shift in the study of history and archaeology education. It should be read by anyone who is involved in the business of history-archaeologists, teachers, interpreters, museum educators, historians-as well as anyone else who considers him or herself a student of history. -- Dr. Susan D. Renoe, University of Missouri-Columbia
Elaine Davis is a highly respected archaeology educator who understands both the worlds of educators and archaeologists. How Students Understand the Past: From Theory to Practice offers fascinating case studies of both research about learning and educational in-school and out-of school programs, all informed by contemporary learning theory, instructional methodology, and Dr. Davis' personal experiences. For Davis, history encompasses the entire human past that should be studied through oral traditions, archaeology, and written records, a perspective essential for integrating the teaching of archaeology and history. A 'must read' for teachers and teacher educators, for museum and heritage specialists, for archaeologists and historians, or anyone developing an educational program whose goal is the teaching and understanding of the past. -- Ruth O. Selig, Editor, AnthroNotes (R)
History is created by the people who interpret the past. How and why could it possibly be boring? To investigate, Dr. Davis examined how history is taught, how it is perceived by students, and how students learn. For those wishing to go beyond presenting history toward the goal of helping students discover the past, this volume is a must read. -- Carol J. Ellick, Director of Public Programs, SRI Foundation, Chair of the Society for American Archaeology, Public Education Committee
