From Students to Democratic Citizens: Embedding Student Voice in Education Decision Making

• In Event: Hilton Roundtable Session 3

Abstract

It has long been upheld that the purpose of U.S. public education is preparing all learners to participate in society and exercise their democratic rights and responsibilities. However, many scholars argue that schools no longer exemplify the democratic principles they were designed to instill upon learners. The concept of student voice, or student role in education decision making, has emerged in the 21st century as a more democratic strategy for reform. Educators are increasingly utilizing student voice, but there are limited comprehensions of the factors necessary to maintain student voice efforts. The purpose of this study is to deepen our understanding of how students, through students voice efforts, can continue to participate in decision making and maintain stability over time.

Authors

• Samantha Elizabeth Holquist, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

• Dana L. Mitra, The Pennsylvania State University