Ukraine: Social science education in Ukraine: Current state and challenges

Abstract

Highlights

• the goal of school social science education is development of learners’ civic and social competencies;
• social and civic competencies are defined in the framework of universal values, national and European identity, patriotism, democracy and sustainable development;
• the school social science education is undergoing a reform within the New Ukrainian School strategy;
• the key challenge relates to better provision for the competency-based learning by competency inventory and application of the integrative approach to teaching.

Purpose: The paper provides an overview of the current state of school social science education in Ukraine, whose development is considered in the context of its internal and external challenges.

Design/methodology/approach: The analysis of the regulatory documents, school social science curriculum and course syllabi as well as publications and interviews with the stakeholders are the methods applied to identify the mission, content and current challenges of social science education.

Findings: The underlying concept is based on universal human, European and national values, respect for Ukrainian traditions and the traditions of other cultures and ethnic groups, principles of democracy, human rights and freedoms. Being a dynamic area of education, school social science is undergoing a transformation under the New Ukrainian School reform focusing on competency based integrative approach to education. The Russian military aggression against the country is another transformation factor that is currently being addressed.