Joining the Fray: Supporting Civic Dialogue and Expression Online

• In Event: 18.044 - Democratic Citizenship in Education SIG Paper Session 2

Abstract

Digital media have become central to the practice of democracy. This creates a new set of challenges for civic education. On one hand, digital media creates opportunities for youth to learn, discuss and act on issues of public concern. On the other hand we see concerns about the quality of such information, conversation, and action. Furthermore, there are concerns about the equity of opportunity afforded by digital media. The most promising forms of online activity are limited to a relatively small number of youth. This paper draws on a mixed methods study of an urban civic education initiative and examines whether classroom practices encourage the collaborative and productive uses of digital media that are associated with civic engagement.

Author

• Ellen Middaugh, San Jose State University