Civics Lessons

Civics Lessons

Many kids in disadvantaged neighborhoods feel the system isn’t just broken –it’s rigged, and not in their favor. One professor says this “empowerment gap” is just as profound --and important to address--- as the “achievement gap.”

Eighth grade social studies courses don’t inspire much more than a yawn from most kids. For students in the most disadvantaged neighborhoods, government and civics often inspire outright cynicism. Many believe the system isn’t just broken -they think it’s rigged, and not in their favor. One professor says this “empowerment gap” is just as profound ---and important to address--- as the “achievement gap.” We explore ideas for teaching young people how to be engaged citizens.

Guests

Meira Levinson

Associate Professor, Harvard Graduate School of Education; author, "No Citizen Left Behind" (Harvard University Press, 2012)

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Comments

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As a public school teacher in Montgomery County, I am concerned that even with the most creative and innovative curriculum and delivery of instruction, there remains a gap between what is learned at school in civics and ultimately, participation outside of the classroom. Even in 2012, equity gaps are still quite apparent.

Mon, 05/14/2012 - 12:26pm

I'm all for teaching civics in school but not the liberalism promoted by your guest. From the comments by your guest and suggestion that Bush stole the election I'm sure her brand of civics doesn't include a Republican's view of civics.

Mon, 05/14/2012 - 12:49pm
The Kojo Nnamdi Show is produced by member-supported WAMU 88.5 in Washington DC.