Mark Helmsing

Dr. Mark Helmsing serves as an Assistant Professor at George Mason University, where he is deeply involved with the College of Education & Human Development. His academic affiliations extend across several programs and departments, including Teaching and Teacher Education, Advanced Studies in Teaching and Learning, and Secondary Education. Additionally, Dr. Helmsing collaborates with the Center for International Education, the Folklore Studies Program, and the Department of History & Art History, reflecting his interdisciplinary approach to education and research. Dr. Helmsing's research is centered on the innovative use of folkloristics and public pedagogy. He is particularly interested in how these fields can be leveraged to foster emotional connections to the past, enhance cultural sustainability through history and heritage, and reconceptualize teaching as an expressive performance art. His work seeks to illuminate the ways in which individuals and communities engage with historical narratives and cultural traditions, both in the United States and internationally. Throughout his career, Dr. Helmsing has conducted extensive fieldwork, examining historical attachments and cultural expressions in diverse settings. His research has taken him across the globe, where he has explored the intersections of education, culture, and history in various contexts. This fieldwork has enriched his understanding of how people relate to their pasts and has informed his teaching and scholarship. Dr. Helmsing is a prolific author, having published numerous articles in leading academic journals. His contributions to the field of social studies education are well-regarded, and he has co-edited several books that delve into the complexities of teaching and learning in a multicultural world. His publications often reflect his commitment to exploring the dynamic interplay between education, culture, and history. In addition to his research and writing, Dr. Helmsing is dedicated to teaching and mentoring students. He is passionate about preparing future educators to think critically about the role of history and culture in education and to engage with diverse perspectives. His teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of viewing education as a transformative and creative process. Dr. Helmsing's work continues to inspire educators and researchers alike, as he seeks to bridge the gap between academic scholarship and practical application in the classroom. His interdisciplinary approach and commitment to cultural sustainability make him a valuable asset to the academic community at George Mason University and beyond.