Defining and Investigating the Need for High-Quality Instructional Materials in Social Studies

Social studies curricula are influenced by many political and social factors, including national policy discussions, states’ revisions to standards, and guiding frameworks. Many of these influences, as described in AIR’s report on the K‒12 social studies curriculum landscape, have sparked discussion about what curriculum materials are needed to address teacher needs and student learning outcomes. For instance, states and national organizations in the field are more frequently and seriously considering what high-quality instructional materials (HQIM) look like in social studies.

On January 30, 2025, AIR hosted a panel discussion with leaders in the field of social studies curriculum development on the state of HQIM in social studies. The discussion focused on the definition of HQIM, the current usage and challenges with HQIM, and lessons learned from other content areas. Policymakers, practitioners, technical assistance providers, and others interested in social studies curricula development attended this event.