What is the state of civics education in the United States?

This research analyzes the quality and effectiveness of civics education by reviewing publicly accessible state standards for civics learning. Our research team conducted this study with a qualitative approach.

Our Research Questions Are:

What criteria and approaches are common in state civic standards?

What is the quality of content of civics education standards?

What guidelines are offered regarding best practices for delivering civics education?

How do standards prioritize high-order thinking and active participation? 

In what ways do the standards position students as emerging active citizens by supporting them in practices of relevant and accessible civic engagement?

Explore the Paper

History of Civics Education in the US
Philosophy of Civics Education
Trends in Civic Education Models
Structural Barriers in Civics Education
Methodology
By State (Coming Soon)

Team

Leah Kaplan

Research Fellow
  • M.A. in Equity and Social Justice in Education at SFSU
  • Passionate about intersectional feminism, equity in education, and holistic health and wellbeing
  • I love world music, swimming in the ocean, and critical social theory

Nina Bamberg

Director of Programs
  • MA in International Education Development with a concentration in Peace and Human Rights Education
  • Passionate about environmental justice and combatting educational inequities
  • Loves traveling, yoga, podcasts, and puzzles

Priten Shah

CEO
  • B.A. in Philosophy and M.Ed. in Education Policy from Harvard University
  • Is a serial entrepreneur whose projects aim to change power dynamics in various industries and fields
  • Lives in NYC with his pet bird, Pia

Ndalaku Okolo

Intern
  • History and Psychology
  • BLM, Climate Change, LGBTQ+ rights
  • My name, Ndalaku, means born into a wealth of love

Julia Pepper

Nonprofit/Research Intern
  • NYU student studying international relations
  • Passionate about women’s rights, UN reform, and affordable housing
  • Loves to paint, sketch, and visit art galleries in her free time

Katie Morscher

Intern
  • Recent graduate of the University at Albany with a major in sociology and a minor in psychology and criminal justice
  • Interested in women’s rights and racial issues
  • Enjoys being active, watching movies, and learning new things

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