Understanding history is foundational not just for academic success, but for informed citizenship, critical thinking and cultural awareness. That’s why recent declines in middle schoolers’ knowledge of both history and civics disturb not only educators but federal officials who worry about how academic gaps will affect young people’s participation in democracy, according to The 74.
The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in History online program from Northern Kentucky University (NKU) offers a powerful opportunity for aspiring educators to gain the skills, knowledge and credentials necessary for this challenge. By gaining a strong foundation in historical events, developing strong analytical skills and learning how to communicate the past in engaging ways, graduates are poised to reshape how students understand how American history fits into the big picture of world history.
Why U.S. History Education Is Important
In the years after the COVID-19 pandemic, social studies educators have struggled to catch students up on lost instruction and content. Between 2018 and 2022, eighth graders’ knowledge of history fell significantly, according to test results from the National Assessment of Educational Progress. Lower scores in history were “widespread and profound,” according to EdSource, affecting all racial and student achievement groups across the board. After some improvement over the last three decades, test results in history have now fallen back to levels measured in the 1990s.
The implications of declining history knowledge are immense. Without a clear grasp of America’s historical development — from the ideals of the American Revolution to the struggles of the Civil Rights Movement — students are ill-equipped to critically analyze present-day political, social and economic issues, Forbes argues. Many students cannot explain basic historical concepts, such as the causes of the American Revolution or the distinction between a city and a state. This absence of knowledge hinders their ability to participate meaningfully in democratic processes on a global scale.
Moreover, historical education nurtures essential cognitive skills that are transferable across disciplines and careers. Through the study of historical events and diverse perspectives, students learn to evaluate sources, distinguish fact from opinion and construct coherent arguments based on evidence, according to the American Historical Association. These abilities are vital not only for success in school, but also for careers in law, education, public policy and journalism.
A strong foundation in history also supports cultural understanding and empathy for the ongoing dynamics abroad. Learning about every nation’s complex past helps students appreciate the diversity of the American experience. It invites them to consider the lives and contributions of people from different races, genders, regions and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Improving Learning Experience for History Students
To address the growing gap in historical knowledge among American students, educators must rethink how history is taught. Traditional methods — focused heavily on memorizing dates, names and isolated facts — often fail to engage students or convey the relevance of historical study to their everyday lives, according to Education Week. Instead, a more dynamic, inquiry-based approach to teaching history is needed — one that emphasizes storytelling, critical analysis and real-world connections.
One effective method is incorporating primary source analysis into lessons. Rather than simply reading textbook summaries, students can examine original documents, such as speeches, letters, photographs and political cartoons, to explore historical events from multiple viewpoints. Historical organizations provide curated timelines and documents that educators can use to bring these narratives to life.
Incorporating project-based learning and simulations can also significantly improve the learning experience. Edutopia suggests incorporating free digital tools that can help students step into historical places and converse with historical figures like presidents or monarchs. These immersive experiences make history tangible and memorable.
To accomplish all of this, educators themselves need training that goes beyond content knowledge. As part of NKU’s B.A. in History program, students have the chance to develop their own practical skills in writing and research, enabling them to pass those lessons on to the next generation. In Advanced Historical Writing, students practice research-based writing and persuasive strategies based on their studies in courses like History of the United States Through 1877 and History of the United States since 1877. With a broad understanding of the connections between U.S. and world history, graduates are ready to take the next steps in their professional careers.
Make History Come Alive With Online Degree From Northern Kentucky University
The value of historical education extends far beyond textbooks or tests. It equips students with the context and tools to become informed, thoughtful and responsible members of society.
Graduates of NKU’s B.A. in History program learn the tools they need to succeed in their professional careers. This curriculum equips these future educators who are eager to guide students through the complex and crucial lessons provided by studying history.
Learn more about Northern Kentucky University’s online Bachelor of Arts in History program.
