“I Don’t Love This, But …”: How Middle Schoolers Practice Democratic Citizenship During Action Civics

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Wednesday 11:45 am - Gold 2
  In Roundtable Session: Middle School Students' Engagement in Civic Education

Abstract

In this qualitative case study, we explored how middle school youth practiced democratic citizenship within the context of small groups during an action civics cycle of inquiry. Drawing from scholarship on community-building civics tasks to frame the study, we collected qualitative and quantitative data during two summer civics camps. Findings indicate that youth recognized the significance of vocalizing their ideas and being receptive to multiple perspectives for collaborative projects. Additionally, positive social connections in the form of friendship emerged as a key aspect of these early adolescents’ capacity to speak and listen across differences. Implications for teachers, researchers, and curriculum writers will be addressed.

Authors

• Michelle Bauml, Texas Christian University

• Victoria Smith, University of North Texas

• Jerrett Lyday, Texas Christian University