ONLINE ASSIGNMENT: CONCEPTUAL BACKGROUND OF SOCIAL SCIENCE EDUCATION-
CONCEPTUAL BACKGROUND OF SOCIAL SCIENCE EDUCATION
1. Introduction
The
evolution of social science as a discipline marks a journey from early
philosophical inquiries to a structured field of empirical research. Initially rooted in intellectual and speculative
traditions, Social Science has developed into a rigorous discipline by
integrating systematic methods and diverse theoretical perspectives. Over time, Social Science has expanded its
scope to encompass various specialised lines, driven by the need to understand
complex social phenomena and address pressing societal issues. This evolution reflects a growing
recognition of the importance of empirical research and interdisciplinary
approaches in comprehending the intricacies of human behaviour and social
structures.
Some works
on studying man and society in the 1760s. Some works, such as Thomas Hobbes’s
Leviathan, John Locke’s Two Treatises on Government, Vico’s New Science, and
Montesquieu’s Spirit of Laws, were published during this time. The middle of
the eighteenth century saw a resurgence of interest in social science.
Capitalism expanded by the mid-18th century and eventually became
Western Europe's central socio-economic structure.
Micrabeau
first used “Social Science” in French in 1767. Urbanisation and population
growth accelerated in the second part of the 18th century. At this
time, slums, alcoholism, rudeness, etc., arose and were to become the focus of
social reform. “Sociology” emerged as a new discipline by Auguste Comte. He was the first to analyse and fully systematic
the tenants of the social sciences’ positive character. History and politics
took a new turn thanks to Montesquieu and Voltaire.
Social Science had established a solid and reputable position in all
major European nations by the beginning of the 19th century. Karl
Marx introduced the first general theory of Social Science. The Social sciences have been heavily
institutionalised since the 20th century and are now a research subject.
2.
MEANING OF SOCIAL SCIENCE
Social
Science is a generic term covering the scientific study of man. It is a
discipline or branch of science that deals with socio-cultural aspects of human
behaviour. Social science encompasses academic disciplines such as economics,
history, political science, psychology, social work, and sociology, which focus
on studying the social lives of individuals, groups, and animals. The phrase
“Social Science” refers to the broad field of scientific study of men,
encompassing various academic disciplines that contribute to our understanding
of human behaviour and social structures.
3.
DEFINITIONS OF SOCIAL SCIENCE
·
Columbia Encyclopedia (2001): “Social Science refers to those branches of
the study that deal with humans in their social relations.”
·
Brittanica Encyclopedia (1971): “Social Science refers to any disciplines
or branch of science that deals with the socio-cultural aspects of human
behaviour and involves the systematic study of society and individuals.”
·
Encyclopedia of Social Sciences: “Social Sciences are those mental or
cultural sciences which deal with the activities of the individual as the
member of the group”.
·
James High: “Social Sciences are those bodies of
learning and study which recognise the simultaneous and mutual action of
physical and non-physical stimuli which produce social relation”.
·
Charles Beard: “Social Sciences are the body of knowledge
and thought pertaining to human affairs as distinguished from sticks, stones,
stars and physical objects”.
·
Bining & Bining: “The subject that relate to the origin,
organisation and development of human society, especially to man in his
association with other men”.
·
J Hammings: “Social Science is the study of relations
and inter-relations, historical, geographical and social”.
·
Secondary Education Commission of the
National Education Commission (USA): “Social Studies are understood to be those
whose subject matter relates directly to the organisation and development of
human society and man as a member of social groups”.
·
Jarotimek: “Social Studies is the study of human
relationships”.
·
Young and Mack: “By Social Science, we mean those bodies of
knowledge compiled through the use of scientific method which deal with the
forms and contents of man’s interaction”.
·
Alexander Pope: Known than thyself presume not God to the
proper study of mankind is man”.
·
National Curriculum for Elementary and
Secondary Education (NCER): “Social Science is perhaps the singular curricular area which can prove
to be the most effective tool for providing education in the context of all the
core components indicating in the National Policy on Education,1986”.
4. NATURE OF
SOCIAL SCIENCE
Social
Science developed into a recognised topic of study and was included in the
curriculum of universities and other higher education institutions during the
18th century. A byproduct
of modernity, urbanisation, industrialisation, renaissance, the expansion of
science, and numerous other phenomena are the emergence and growth of social science.
These
changes endangered social science complicity. To address the issues and
difficulties that society faces, social action and a deeper understanding of
society are necessary for their resolution. Social Science education became
needed in that particular environment.
- Human activity is directly related to social
science.
- Advanced research on human society.
- Discover the reality of relationships between
people.
- The unique combination of various disciplines.
·
Study of the evolution of man over time.
·
Study of social organisations.
·
Social Science is a realistic study.
·
The teaching of Social Science is to commit
the learner to the basic principles and purposes of the society in which he
lives.
·
Social Science is a dynamic.
5. SCOPE OF
SOCIAL SCIENCE
The scope of social science is vast and
expansive, as wide as the world itself and as lengthy as the history of man on
this earth. It includes the millions of years before recorded history and the
foreseeable future. According to
John O Michaels: “The breadth of Social Studies programmes should provide for a
variety of experiences so that the child’s learning will be well-rounded and
well-balanced. It should also be possible to draw upon other fields of their
ramifications; a narrow compartmentalised programme limits social learning”.
According to Michaels, “the breadth of social science (studies) programme
should provide for a variety of experiences so that the child’s learning will
be well rounded and well balanced”.
q
Vast as the world. It is as wide as the
world and as long as the world. It is the study of human relationships in areas
such as:
Ø People of
one’s nationality and people around the globe,
Ø People and
various kinds of institutions,
Ø People and
Earth,
Ø People and
Time
Ø People and
resources.
q A Functional
Study of Natural science, physical science and fine arts are interrelated.
q A Study of
Current Affairs.
q A study
leading to international understanding.
q Practical
study of various sources.
q Study of
human society.
q Study of
culture.
q Developing
national and international understanding.
q It covers
the study of the past based on incidents and events.
6. NEED AND
SIGNIFICANCE OF SOCIAL SCIENCE
Social
Science is an academic discipline that studies human relationships and society.
On the one hand, it studies gaining information and comprehending society and
interpersonal relations. On the other
hand, it carries out the duty of educating children so they contribute to the
programme and the welfare of the country and society.
q A person’s
overall growth is aided by social science.
q Gaining
knowledge of these issues facing society.
q Assisting in
the society’s endeavour for progress.
q Assisting in
the growth of societal and nationalistic loyalty.
q It offers
information on the social and environmental spheres.
q To cultivate
one’s character.
q Developing
moderation.
q Social
Science fosters ethical and moral principles.
q The sense of
global fraternity was fostered.
q To cultivate
a spirit of cooperation.
q The
advancement of society depends on public awareness of its issues.
q Social science educates students on how to
behave well.
q It
contributes to contemporary society’s recognition of the value of
interdependence.
q Psychological
reasons prepare for cooperation.
q Educational
& sociological reasons
q Leadership
qualities
q Problem-solving
abilities
q Feeling of
co-operation
q Development
of thinking power and rationality.
q Knowledge
about the Laws of nature.
q Moral
development
q Development
of democratic values
7. CONCLUSION
The Conceptual background of social
science, encompassing its meaning, scope, need, and significance, offers a
comprehensive understanding of how this field contributes to our knowledge and
society. Social Science, by definition, studies human society and social
relationships through various disciplines, such as Sociology, psychology,
economics and political science. Its meaning extends beyond mere academic
inquiry; it involves thoroughly exploring social behaviours, institutions, and
structures to understand and address societal challenges.
The need for social science is underscored
by its role in addressing complex societal issues, informing public policy, and
enhancing the quality of life. Through empirical research and theoretical
framework, social scientists contribute to solving problems such as inequality,
conflict and governance. Their work supports evidence-based decision-making and
fosters a more profound comprehension of social dynamics.
The significance of social science lies in
its ability to influence and improve societal outcomes. Social science is vital
in shaping a more equitable and informed society by generating knowledge that
informs policy, education, and community development. Its interdisciplinary
nature also bridges gaps between various fields, offering holistic perspectives
on human behaviour and social development.
In Conclusion, the conceptual background of
social science highlights its essential role in understanding and improving
human society. Its broad scope, practical relevance and impact underscores the
importance of this field in addressing the complexities of social life and
fostering a moral, just and informed world.
REFERENCES
Aggarwal. (2008). Teaching of Social Studies: A Practical Approach (4th
ed.). Vikas Publishing House. New Delhi
Dash, B.N. & Murthy, I.V.R. (2009). Methods of Teaching Social
Studies (1st ed.) Neelkamal Publications. New Delhi
Kumar, Tarun. (2023, July 24). Nature, scope and importance of Social
Science. Pdf [Slide Show]. SlideShare. https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/nature-scope-and
-importance-of-social-sciencepdf/259393825
Paleeri, S.(2019). Meaning and definition of Social Sciences. https://paleeeri.blogspot.com/2019/09/meaning-and-definition-of
-Social=1
Singh, Y.K. (2008). Teaching of Social Studies (1st ed.).
A.P.H. Publishing Corporation. New Delhi
