The rapid expansion of digital media, artificial intelligence, and online information has transformed how students learn about history, government, economics, geography, and current events. In this environment, social studies educators are uniquely positioned to help students develop the skills and habits necessary to be informed and active citizens.

 

The 2027 California Council for the Social Studies Conference theme, Teaching in the Age of Information: Media Literacy, Inquiry, and Civic Learning, highlights the essential role of social studies education in preparing informed, thoughtful, and engaged citizens. This theme recognizes that social studies classrooms are spaces where students learn to think critically about the world around them and engage constructively with multiple viewpoints. As students encounter an overwhelming volume of information, the need for civic reasoning, civil deliberation and discourse, and informed participation has never been greater.

 

Through media literacy, students learn to evaluate sources, recognize bias, and assess evidence. Through inquiry, students ask meaningful questions, investigate historical and contemporary issues, analyze multiple perspectives, and construct evidence-based conclusions. Through civic learning, students build the knowledge, skills, and dispositions needed to be civically engaged and participate responsibly and effectively in democratic society.

 

The conference invites educators, scholars, and community partners to share innovative practices, research, and classroom experiences that support critical thinking, democratic engagement, culturally responsive teaching, and student inquiry. Together, we will explore how social studies education can equip students to become informed consumers of information, thoughtful collaborators, and active participants in civic life.