History as the Human Story: Teaching Students to Think, Question, and Live Wisely

Send us Fan MailHistory is the human story, a way of seeing the world and our place in it.In this episode of The Brighter Side of Education, Dr. Lisa Hassler welcomes back historian and Associate Professor Dr. Christopher Berg for a thoughtful conversation about the purpose of history education, how it has changed over time, and why it remains essential in today’s classrooms.Drawing from his work in Why Study History?, History and the Public Good, and “My Friend! You and I Have Passed Our Lives in Serious Times,” Dr. Berg explores student perceptions of the importance of learning history, including how students view textbook credibility and the relevance of history in their own lives.Together, Lisa and Chris discuss why people turn to history during serious times, how historical thinking helps students evaluate evidence and multiple perspectives, and why these habits of mind are especially important in an age shaped by social media and AI.Dr. Berg also shares powerful examples from his own life and teaching, including the teacher who changed his view of history, the student whose Navy experience helped her see women’s contributions in history differently, and classroom strategies that help students question textbook narratives, compare sources, and develop healthy skepticism.This episode invites educators to help students see history not just as a timeline of events, but as a way to develop judgment, perspective, intellectual humility, and wisdom for living thoughtfully in the world.Check out Dr. Berg's book, The Palgrave Handbook of History and Social Studies Education. Dr. Berg's teacher recommendation: History Lessons: How Textbooks From Around the World Portray U.S. HistoryVisit the American Historical Association. 💡 This episode is CPD accredited! Educators can now earn Continuing Professional Development (CPD) minutes by listening. To claim your certificate:Listen to the full episodeVisit https://thecpd.group/podcastEnter code 800163 to check in and download your certificateor direct link: https://thecpd.group/p/K5WY2YZGreat News! The Brighter Side of Education is now CPD Accredited! Sponsored by Dr. Gregg Hassler Jr., DMDTrusted dental care for healthy smiles and stronger communities—building brighter futures daily. Head to the show notes to find if this episode is CPD eligible and details on how to claim your CPD certification!Sponsored by Dr. Gregg Hassler Jr., DMDTrusted dental care for healthy smiles and stronger communities—building brighter futures daily.Support the showIf you have a story about what's working in your schools that you'd like to share, email me at [email protected] or visit www.drlisahassler.com. Subscribe, tell a friend, and consider becoming a supporter by clicking the link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2048018/support. The music in this podcast was written and performed by Brandon Picciolini of the Lonesome Family Band. Visit and follow him on Instagram.