Tackling Mississippi’s Brain Drain: A Problem-based Geographic Inquiry Approach for Social Studies Educators

Authors

James B. Howell, University of Southern MississippiFollow
Lamont E. Maddox, University of North AlabamaFollow
J.O. Joby Bass, University of Southern MississippiFollow
Benjamin H. Austin, Petal High SchoolFollow
Skye Morgan, Jones County School DistrictFollow

Document Type

Article

Abstract

This paper offers an overview of brain drain as a social problem and shares insights on integrating problem-based geographic inquiry (PBGI) into classrooms. It aims to help social studies teachers: 1) understand brain drain and its geographic relevance, 2) explore how brain drain serves as an engaging public policy issue for PBGI, and 3) identify resources to support problem-based learning. Additionally, the paper provides practical recommendations on designing effective PBGI units, selecting relevant resources, and utilizing geographic tools to foster civic and geographic reasoning skills. Investigating human migration associated with brain drain using a public policy lens should help students engage with critical issues affecting their communities and prepare them for more informed democratic participation.

Recommended Citation

Howell, James B.; Maddox, Lamont E.; Bass, J.O. Joby; Austin, Benjamin H.; and Morgan, Skye (2025) "Tackling Mississippi’s Brain Drain: A Problem-based Geographic Inquiry Approach for Social Studies Educators," The Councilor: A National Journal of the Social Studies: Vol. 88: No. 2, Article 1.
Available at: https://thekeep.eiu.edu/the_councilor/vol88/iss2/1

AI Statement

We used AI to brainstorm ideas for the title that we subsequently revised.