The question about the necessity of history education arises from time to time. Many people name the historical education field recurrent and predict its dawn in the nearest future. Many questions are raised regarding access to information that has become easier with the development of technologies. Anyone can enter Google and find needed historical facts with several clicks. So, what is the purpose of history education? Does it have a future in the modern world?
Why do we need to learn history?
Students who think they do not need to learn history because of the accessibility of information have a narrow scope in the historical field. So, what are precisely the actual purposes of earning historical records? Do we need history just to widen our horizons and remember significant dates? The debates around the necessity of learning history remain current in various modern societies’ sectors. Among the sharp questions is the possible omitting of controversial topics and tragic historical events. So, does the past belong to those who control the present? Is it possible to look at history as an instrument of changing the scope of reality?
History impacts active citizenship
Active citizenship is impossible without historical throwbacks. Since history is among the specific areas of study, its main purpose is to teach that any historical event could become a subject of debate. One can interpret historical events through the scope of one’s vision and mental baggage. How a person understands and estimates the historical events spread on his or her judgmental abilities of the current state of things in political, social, and cultural life. Hence, if you train to study and interpret historical facts, you will better understand the cultural and economic interests of the country you live in. Learning history is crucial for active citizens of democratic societies.
A deep understanding of our world comes together with learning about past events and realizing their prerequisites. In addition, learning history helps not only to understand what and why is happening in the current society right now, but also helps to develop critical and analytical abilities. Historical events shape the world we live in now and create a basis for future events in the world’s history.
Of course, some students may disagree with the statement that learning history can help them to become more active citizens. Instead of reading historical books, they are most likely dedicating time to learning their significant disciplines. Of course, you have a right to choose your future and set priorities as you like. By the way, if learning history is not a part of your plans, but you still need to score high grades, consider ordering samples of college papers written by professional authors. Through a reliable paper writing service, you can buy a research paper, an essay, or a term paper on history fast and safely. Getting samples from proficient writers will help you finish homework quicker and avoid studying topics you do not like.
History and Internet
Since the world has become more globalized with the development of the Internet, the approach to information has begun to change. This informational revolution impacted the attitude to history in society as well. The rise of social media has made the process of globalization even faster. With plenty of opportunities came loads of potential problems related to interpreting events and sharing any thoughts in open sources.
Social media provoked the appearance of one of the problems in the educational area. Being one of the most vulnerable social groups, students face the impact of media platforms and are disproportionately injured by social media and technologies. Even an experienced adult could get messed with fabricated content on the media platforms and social media, especially if the source looks authorized. The overload of different information from untrusted sources pollutes the virtual environment the same way as the physical environment gets polluted by carbon footprints.
Preventing manipulations
While students learn history, they develop their ability to interpret and compare information and analyze and criticize events’ opinions and impact. Hence, learning history can make you stronger and more resistant to manipulations. Being surrounded with loads of information and ideas, one can become vulnerable to manipulations. For example, assuming that most people are visuals, it is easy to turn the historical events to any side with the help of visual elements. Being proficient in history, developing critical thinking, and learning to interpret historical events helps prevent manipulations. Thus, learning history helps to clear our minds and deconstruct myths and stereotypes that impact society badly.
Wrap up
Does history education have a future? Or maybe with the invention of the Internet, people do not need to learn history anymore? By learning about critical historical events, students get analytical skills and develop critical thinking. In turn, they become less vulnerable to manipulations and get an active position as citizens. We hope that you liked our article and found it helpful! Good luck!
