Social Studies and Science Education as Specific Subject Pedagogies in Comparison: State of the Art, Research Approaches and Challenges

This study discusses the commonalities and differences between Social Studies and Science education in Japan, focusing on the curriculum structure, research themes, and educational roles. Both subjects are central to fostering students’ understanding of society and nature, with Social Studies rooted in the social sciences and Science in the natural sciences. The analysis highlights shared elements, such as problem-solving and inquiry- based learning, and the presence of both integrated courses (e.g., “Science and Our Daily Life” and “Modern and Comprehensive History”) and specialized subjects (e.g., “Basic Biology” and “Advanced Japanese History”). Despite certain similarities, these subjects differ in their research focus. Science education often addresses students’ misconceptions and cognitive development, whereas Social Studies research rarely extends beyond lesson-based studies to explore students’ prior knowledge. Examining these subjects in parallel clarifies their distinct methodological approaches and foundational principles, thereby providing insights into the broader positioning of Social Studies and Science education research in Japan.