What is the Difference Between Social Science and Social Studies?

The main difference between social science and social studies lies in their focus and methodology. Here are the key distinctions between the two:

Focus: Social studies is a multidisciplinary field that encompasses various aspects of human society, such as history, geography, civics, and political science. Its primary goal is to help students understand how to be effective citizens of society. On the other hand, social science is concerned with studying society through the collection and analysis of data, aiming to resolve issues within a society and contribute to its development.
Methodology: Social studies typically focus on social observation, with students learning and using skills as they investigate society, probe problems, make choices, and cooperate with others. Social science, however, is more quantitative and analytical, using scientific methods and data analysis to study social phenomena.
Education Level: Social studies are usually taught at the elementary and secondary levels, while social sciences are typically part of a higher studies curriculum, such as college or university courses.
Branches: Social studies can be divided into two main categories: humanities and social sciences. Social science, on the other hand, is divided into many branches, including psychology, sociology, political science, anthropology, and linguistics.

In summary, social studies is a broader field that deals with various aspects of human society and aims to create effective citizens, while social science is a more specialized and analytical field that studies society through data collection and analysis.

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What is the Difference Between Social Science and Social Studies?

Comparative Table: Social Science vs Social Studies

The main difference between social science and social studies lies in their intended purposes and the subjects they encompass. Here is a table summarizing the differences between the two:

Aspect	Social Science	Social Studies
Definition	Social science is the study of society through the collection and analysis of data.	Social studies is the integrated study of social sciences and humanities to promote civic competence.
Subjects	Social science encompasses various fields such as sociology, economics, anthropology, and political science.	Social studies includes subjects like civics, geography, history, and economics.
Purpose	Social science aims to analyze society and the social interactions of people.	Social studies focuses on understanding how to be an effective citizen and promotes critical thinking and decision-making skills.
Education Level	Social science is typically taught at the college level or in advanced high school courses.	Social studies is most often taught at the school level, from elementary to high school.
Methodology	Social science relies on empirical and scientific methods, such as data collection and analysis.	Social studies often involves social observation and the application of skills to investigate society and explore issues.

In summary, social science is a broader field that studies society and social interactions, while social studies is an interdisciplinary subject that combines social sciences and humanities to promote effective citizenship and critical thinking skills. Social science is typically taught at higher education levels, whereas social studies is more commonly taught in schools.

Guilherme Mazui

Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.