Surveys consistently show that the vast majority of Americans fail basic tests of civic literacy. That’s one reason why a General Assembly commission sponsored a Civics Education Summit in Richmond attended by teachers from across the Commonwealth. They discussed practical ways to help students learn political knowledge—while capturing their imaginations.
A major theme was the effectiveness of teaching and learning methods. For example, when students read, they remember about 10% of what’s read. Hearing results in a 20% retention rate. But students who discuss material remember 70% … and when they also do an activity, they recall 90%. Henrico teacher Kathryn Niemeier is a trainer for the civics education program, Project Citizen. She said hands-on learning is essential for mastering civics knowledge.
“And that’s what Project Citizen really does. It explains to students how you can participate in the process effectively, get your voice heard. You don’t always get the outcome you necessarily want. But you get your voice heard. But it’s a way of participating outside the most common form which they hear about—that’s voting,” she said.
Niemeier also said learning dispositions, such as respect, accountability, and political efficacy are also critical. She added that research, oral language, and other skills acquired through an active approach will also transfer to other subjects.
–Anne Marie Morgan
Virginia Public Radio 