Search the courses, subjects, tracks, games and features, or jump straight to a page.
Learn it your way
A short class with Sarah and her students. The other ways are under More.
Sign up free to listen. Transcripts are free to read.
Civic engagement refers to the actions individuals take to address public issues and concerns. What do you think are examples of civic engagement in our community?
Voting is one example, right?
I think volunteering also counts!
Exactly! There are three main types of civic engagement: political, social, and digital. Political includes voting, while social can mean volunteering. Digital engagement involves using online platforms to organize and raise awareness. Remember the acronym PSD: Political, Social, Digital!
So, PSD can help us remember the types of engagement?
Yes! And why do you think it's essential for us to be civically engaged as youth?
Because we can create change and have a voice in decision-making!
Exactly! This is the power of youth participation that we’ll dive into next.
Let's talk about the rights and responsibilities of youth. What rights do you think all young citizens should have?
Freedom of speech, definitely!
The right to education is essential too.
Correct! The rights include the freedom of speech, education, peaceful assembly, and information access. Now, what about responsibilities?
We should respect others’ rights!
Yes! Responsibilities such as participating in the democratic process and practicing tolerance are crucial. A memory aid here could be RESPECT: Rights, Engagement, Social participation, Participation, Education, Community, Tolerance. It encompasses both aspects!
That's helpful! We need to remember our rights to exercise them properly.
Youth movements have gained considerable momentum in recent years. Can anyone name a youth-led movement?
Fridays for Future started by Greta Thunberg!
And March for Our Lives against gun violence.
Great examples! These movements show the impact of digital activism. Platforms like social media can mobilize a huge audience quickly. What's a potential downside of relying solely on online activism?
It can lead to slacktivism, where people think liking something online is enough.
Exactly! While digital activism has pros like rapid mobilization, we must ensure it translates into real-world action.
That's a good point! We need a balance between online and offline efforts.
Despite the eagerness to engage, many youth face barriers. What are some of these obstacles?
I think lack of awareness about issues can stop us.
And sometimes adults don’t take us seriously, which feels like tokenism.
Exactly! There’s also the digital divide and political distrust. Let's remember the acronym ADAPT: Awareness, Distrust, Access, Participation, Tokenism. Each factor can affect our ability to engage.
We need to overcome these barriers to make our voices heard!
Yes! It’s crucial for us to navigate these challenges effectively.
Lastly, how does youth civic engagement relate to global initiatives like the Sustainable Development Goals?
It helps achieve goals like quality education and climate action.
Yes! Engaging youth promotes partnerships and equity globally.
Exactly! Youth embody global citizenship when they advocate for diversity and sustainability. Remember the acronym G-PEACE: Global citizenship, Participation, Equity, Advocacy, Collaboration, Education. This can help us remember the key principles.
Great way to pull it all together!
I appreciate learning about the impact we can have globally!
Civic action is a call, youth must answer, hear the call!
Once in a town, youth discovered their voice; they voted, volunteered, and made a choice.
R.E.S.P.E.C.T. stands for Rights, Engagement, Social participation, Participation, Education, and Tolerance.
G-PEACE: Global citizenship, Participation, Equity, Advocacy, Collaboration, Education.
Term
Civic Engagement
Click to flip
Term
Digital Activism
Click to flip
Term
Youth Participation
Click to flip
Term
Barriers to Participation
Click to flip
Actions by individuals or groups aimed at addressing issues of public concern.
A person informed about social and political issues, aware of their rights and responsibilities, and willing to participate in civic life.
The use of digital tools and platforms to promote social changes and civic involvement.
The involvement of young people in civic activities, decisions, and movements.
The entitlements (rights) and duties (responsibilities) that govern behavior in society.
This chapter emphasizes the significance of civic engagement and youth participation as essential elements of a thriving democracy.
The chapter outlines the concept of civic engagement and the transformative role youth play in democratic society through participation in various platforms and movements. It covers the importance of education, rights, responsibilities, and the significance of both traditional and digital forms of engagement in fostering active citizenship.
Civic engagement is vital for a thriving democracy, as it encompasses both individual and collective actions aimed at public concern. This engagement often manifests as political, social, or digital actions. In the 21st century, youth have emerged as a crucial demographic with a powerful impact on civic life, facilitated by digital tools, a strong sense of justice, and access to information.
The chapter explores the definition of civic engagement and elucidates the rights and responsibilities inherent to youth as civic-minded citizens. It discusses various factors that motivate and influence youth involvement, highlighting their unique perspectives that contribute to long-term policies such as climate action. Barriers to participation, such as the digital divide and political apathy, are also addressed.
By providing examples of youth-led movements and digital activism, the chapter illustrates how education plays a pivotal role in nurturing civic engagement and global citizenship. The connection between youth participation and the UN Sustainable Development Goals is emphasized, showcasing the potential for youth to affect positive change both locally and globally.