Publication date: Friday 9th December 2011
The Right Kind of History: Listen to the Podcast
Is there a 'right kind if history'? In recent weeks Sir David Cannadine has been in the news about the history teaching in schools. He has done the unthinkable, he has traced the teaching of history in state schools since the beginning. Was there a golden age of teaching when everyone knew their kings and queens?
It is a book that explores the real history of history education. The timing couldn't be more important as ministers, academics and the media muse on the future of what should be taught with the current curriculum review underway.
The book extensively draws on records from the Historical Association - an organisation that goes practically hand in hand with the presence of history lessons in schools. To support the release of the book the Historical Association has interviewed Sir David and importantly the two researchers for the book - Jenny Keating and Nicola Sheldon.
The podcasts explore aspects of the book and also some of the things that aren't covered - methods of research and why some things were left out. John Hamer a former HMI interviewed Jenny and Nicola, rooting out some of the more obscure parts of their research.
David Cannadine Podcast
Nicola Sheldon, Jenny Keating & John Hamer Podcast
For history teachers and lovers of history generally this is a fascinating book charting the fashions and attitudes to history teaching over the decades. That itself reflects some of the wider attitudes to history over the twentieth century. Listen to the podcast then order a copy of the book.
You might find it particularly interesting to hear how the governments of the early and middle twentieth century refused to be involved with the 'what should be taught' debate believing that only totalitarian governments told teachers what history to teach.
This is an insight into how a subject that explores myths and facts can itself be the subject of myths and facts.
The Right Kind of History, Teaching the past in twentieth-century England
Press Contacts
Historical Association: Paula Kitching on pkitching@hotmail.com or 07722809491
