Political Learning & Civic Engagement for Democracy

This course analyzes and applies scholarship to understand the role and impact of the public (and/or publics) in civic life. Through academic study, dialogues with practitioners, case studies, site visits, and hands-on activities, students will develop a critical understanding of the underlying theories and key ideas central to strengthening democratic practices and institutions, and civic life. To promote critical thinking and creative approaches to addressing public issues, coursework includes: individual research in addition to assigned course readings; development of a civic engagement project to be carried out in a future semester; engagement in experiential learning activities organized by the instructor; and working with others from a range of perspectives.