Designing a Model of Historical Reasoning Skills for History Students

Document Type : Research Paper

Author

Abstract

Historical education plays a significant role in transmitting desirable social attitudes, values, and behaviors. Therefore, the primary aim of this study was to design a competency model for historical reasoning among history students. This qualitative research was conducted using the seven-step meta-aggregation method developed by Sandelowski and Barroso. The meta-aggregation team consisted of three curriculum planning experts and one researcher proficient in the meta-aggregation approach. Fifteen relevant research sources formed the basis of analysis, resulting in a model comprising four core themes: historical awareness, awareness of meta-historical concepts and strategies, historical thinking, and historical skills. The validity of the data was confirmed through transferability and data triangulation methods, while reliability was ensured by rigorous guidance of data collection processes and researcher triangulation. Overall, the findings indicate that historical reasoning competencies help students interpret and analyze historical events based on evidence, well-founded, credible, reliable, and primary sources. Additionally, these skills enable students to evaluate sources critically and avoid errors in practice.

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