The problem with the expanding horizons model for history curricula

Abstract

The history curriculum in the United States, particularly in the elementary grades, has long been in need of a revamp, argues Kevin Krahenbuhl. The predominant model of history education, expanding horizons (EH), which begins with students’ local communities and expands outward, is built on incorrect assumptions about what young people are able to understand. In addition, the child-centered nature of the EH approach can lead to “presentism,” in which the past is evaluated in terms of present-day understandings. The focus on skills over content in EH also denies the extent to which growth in historical skill requires content knowledge. Krahenbuhl proposes an expertise-oriented approach that includes specific content and practices and a broad and deep examination of content.