The Study
In this study, University Distinguished Professor Jere Brophy sought to understand students' knowledge of Native Americas at different grade levels. The data was compiled from two studies in which Brophy and fellow researchers interviewed students individually and asked mostly open- ended questions about "Indians" or in the case of fifth graders, Native Americans.

The Findings
Previous studies indicate that preschool and kindergarten children tend to develop negative and stereotypical images of Native Americans. Brophy's research illustrates how students progress from negative and stereotyped views of Native Americans that they bring to school in kindergarten to more realistic and empathetic views they develop through the grade levels. In the article, Brophy breaks down the learning process of Native Americas in this way: (1) no knowledge, (2) cartoon stereotype of the appearance or behavior of Indians, (3) Indians as the first people in America, wilderness survivors, and teachers of and learners from the Pilgrims and other early-arriving Europeans, (4) knowledge about Indians' lives and cultures and empathy with them as "noble ecologists" and victims of European aggression and greed, (5) and distancing and loss of empathy as attention shifts to the pioneers and the western expansion of the United States. Given this learning process, Brophy and his colleagues found that contemporary elementary social studies teaching seems to be effective in helping students discard negative stereotypes of Native Americans and replacing them with mostly accurate information. Indeed, Brophy points out that by making some minor improvements, teachers should be able to optimize students' historical knowledge and empathy in ways that neither romanticize nor demonize any of the groups represented. The adjustments to the curriculum involve retaining the positive elements of the traditional curriculum, making changes or additions when needed, and being both more selective and more inclusive in identifying children's literature selections to use as sources for historical context.

What It Means To You
Brophy's research has implications for curriculum and instruction. How does the elementary social studies curriculum in your school district deal with Native Americans? Can some minor changes improve students' understanding and appreciation of all groups represented?

For More Information
Read the entire article by consulting Brophy, J. (1999). Elementary students learn about Native Americans: The development of knowledge and empathy. Social Education, 63(1), 39-45.

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