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Deciphering Citizenship Education in Asian Contexts: Discourse, Practice and Politics
  • ISSN: 1751-1917
  • E-ISSN: 1751-1925

Abstract

Citizenship education is essential for the continued existence of a society. The purposes of and approach towards citizenship education vary from country to country. In Singapore, social studies is an important school subject used for citizenship education. This article traces the development of social studies in Singapore and shows how, for many years, social studies was conservative, aimed at cultural transmission and preservation of the status quo. The goal was the development of moral, law-abiding and patriotic citizens. With the challenges of globalization, rapid technological advancements and changing demands of the economy, there is recognition of the need to develop citizens who are more informed, thinking and capable of social reformation. Towards the end of the millennium, citizenship education through social studies began to shift towards a more progressive orientation. We question the extent and nature of this shift and highlight the tensions.

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2024-09-30
2026-04-20

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  • Article Type: Article
Keyword(s): civics education; globalization; national identity; social education; social reform; transmission

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