The Role of State Civic Guidelines in Preparing Students for a More Just Democratic Society

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Friday 3:20 pm Four Seasons Ballroom 1
  In Roundtable Session: Democratic Citizenship Measurement, Achievement, and Policy (Table 7)

Abstract

As our democratic society experiences increased polarization, political distrust, and unequal political participation, the need for high-quality civic education remains paramount (White et al., 2023). Although civic education has long been contested, many scholars have lauded best practices that combat democratic fracture (Kahne & Middaugh, 2008; Levine, 2023). Yet, the extent to which standards and frameworks embody these practices varies. This comparative case study analyzed guiding documents from three of the nation’s most heavily praised civics curricula to understand how they aim to prepare students for pursuing a more just society. Analysis indicates that justice-oriented citizenship is rarely centered. Instead, ambiguous language underscores the importance of teacher discretion and the need for a more multi-faceted and justice-oriented approach to civic education.

Authors

• Rachel Waltz, North Carolina State University

• Cassandra Rubinstein, North Carolina State University