Civil engagement involves developing a combination of knowledge, skills, values , and motivation to transform the civic life of our communities and to promote the quality of life in the community through political and non-political processes.
Civic engagement action can occur in many ways. Below is a description of the various ways Illinois practices civic involvement.
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Activism/advocacy: Involves organizing to bring about political or social change, or to show support for a particular goal or policy, raise awareness, or promote it.
Example: plant biology for bioenergy/microbes and the environment. Students have taken action to convey/inform about a problem or issues related to climate change and/or bioenergy.
Citizenship Education: Acquiring knowledge about society, government, social problems, or political problems with or without the application of knowledge.
Example: democratic ideals. Students attend ward council meetings and write reports about their experiences.
Public / Voluntary Service: Participation in activities for the benefit of others or one's community. Such activities may or may not involve structured learning and reflection.
Example: Oral communication in Spanish. Students have to find a way to speak Spanish. These opportunities can include these involuntary settings.
Service-Based Learning: Engages services that link with student learning goals to mutually benefit recipients (community organizations) and providers (students) by meeting the real needs of the community when students register and Progress in learning achieves active participation and reflection.