PCK in place and with a purpose: a case of historic site-based professional development on hallowed ground at Gettysburg
Social Studies Research and Practice
ISSN: 1933-5415
Article publication date: 10 October 2023
Issue publication date: 28 November 2023
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to describe a professional development workshop designed to enhance teachers' pedagogical content knowledge.
Design/methodology/approach
The program draws on a carefully articulated definition of pedagogical knowledge as elaborated by Shulman, and features the work of scholars focused on pushing new interpretations of the meaning of Gettysburg, especially in polarized political times.
Findings
Teacher participants have been found to draw new meaning from their visit that, for many, has had a profound impact on the way they make sense of Gettysburg as a historic site of political importance.
Originality/value
The program offers a model for professional development providers interested in enhancing the pedagogical content knowledge of teachers and engaging them in examination of the past for the purpose of re-examining contemporary political concerns.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The professional development program described in this essay was made possible by the generous support of the National Endowment for the Humanities’ Landmarks of American History and Culture program. While funding was provided to support the program itself, it was not used to support or influence the contents of this essay.
Citation
Powell, D. (2023), "PCK in place and with a purpose: a case of historic site-based professional development on hallowed ground at Gettysburg", Social Studies Research and Practice, Vol. 18 No. 2, pp. 151-163. https://doi.org/10.1108/SSRP-01-2023-0009
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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