Learning Together: A Multicase Study on Reciprocal Learning in Action Civics Programs

• In Event: Exploration of Civic and Politics Education

Abstract

This multi-case study explores how two college student volunteers’ cultural identity impacted their mentorship experiences and relationship-building with a diverse group of elementary children when working in a 12-week action civics after-school program. We suggest that the reciprocal learning opportunities created within the action civics program impacted both student and mentor’s civic ideology. Initial findings indicate that volunteers with strong self-acceptance of cultural identity are able to authentically engage with marginalized populations in a way that deepens civic conversations, and involvement in the action civics program led the volunteers to a critical analysis that pushed them beyond helping in the community to begin to challenge inequities collectively.

Authors

• Kenley Bailey Ritter, Baylor University

• Karon Nicol LeCompte, Baylor University

• Kevin Russel Magill, Baylor University

• Tori Smith, University of Alabama

• Brooke Blevins, Baylor University

• Nate Scholten, Baylor University