Expert calls Albertas latest social studies curriculum draft Eurocentric [Video]

The province of Alberta is making its third attempt at replacing the 20-year-old social studies curriculum currently being taught in elementary schools.

Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides released his government’s draft social studies curriculum on Thursday.

It comes after the NDP government’s 2018 version and the UCP’s 2021 attempt were both criticized and rejected.

Nicolaides said Thursday his government spent seven months doing consultations, including meeting with more than 300 teachers, Indigenous communities and other experts.

More than 12,800 surveys were filled out in the fall of 2023 by members of the public wanting to have a say on a new document.

Despite all of that, University of Alberta professor Carla Peck believes the draft still misses the mark.

“Third time is not the charm,” Peck told Global News.

Some of the biggest changes would see Grade 5 students learn about ancient civilizations including China, Greece and Rome.

Students would learn about Alberta’s geography, natural resources and First Nations in …