Dr. Carla Peck
University of Alberta
Dr. Carla Peck is Professor of Social Studies Education in the Department of Elementary Education at the University of Alberta. Her research focuses on students’ understandings of democratic concepts, diversity, identity, citizenship and the relationship between students’ ethnic identities and their understandings of history.
Carla was a founding member of the Historical Thinking Project and continues to serve on its Executive Committee. From 2008 – 2010, she directed a professional development program with K-12 teachers in Alberta focused on teaching historical thinking. Carla regularly offers workshops at the provincial, national, and international level and serves as a consultant on numerous boards and advisory groups for history and civic organizations. She is also called on as a consultant by ministries of education regarding social studies curriculum development.
Before moving West, Carla taught elementary French and social studies in New Brunswick. Strongly committed to social justice education, Carla has always sought ways to engage students of all ages in discussions about how to make the world a more equitable and just place to live. She views a solid grounding in history and historical inquiry as foundational to these discussions.