Short-term service-learning experiences such as alternative breaks are increasing in popularity due to the focus on service in higher education and the institution's responsibility to ensure students are graduating with the skills needed to succeed in an increasingly competitive, global economy and contribute to a democratic society as citizens…

One of the main goals of the social studies curriculum and public education in general is citizenship preparation, and one aspect of citizenship education is the recitation of the United States Pledge of Allegiance. Using a case study methodology, high school students completed a questionnaire and participated in follow-up interviews regarding…

This dissertation studies the impact of after school clubs and service learning activities on students' beliefs and attitudes towards citizenship (civic participation in a democracy), civic engagement, and political and social participation. This study focuses on two different organizations: Spectrum, a Gay-Straight alliance; and AMIGOS, a service…

This article investigates the use of service-learning in teaching active democratic citizenship in the postgraduate classroom. In particular it draws on a case study of an MBS Government module (GV6104) entitled "Political Participation and Mobilisation" that explores the relationship between democracy and participation. Students of this…

A growing number of educational programs seek to promote young people's participation in political and civic affairs. A common strategy for doing so is to provide students with opportunities to make a difference in their communities. Much research demonstrates a strong connection between a person's sense about making a difference efficacy and the…

Young people in the United States today are much more likely to be involved in volunteer work of an apolitical sort than in politics. As part of a study on political engagement, the author and other colleagues surveyed students at a diversity of colleges and universities and asked them why they and many of their peers are so much more likely to…

Evaluates the political attitudes of students at three West Virginia higher education institutions based on the effects of service learning. Indicates that students learn about and feel helpful towards their community and develop academic skills. (CMK)

Briefly describes programs at some of the 10 public universities participating in a three-year, federally funded project to monitor students' attitudes concerning democracy, diversity issues, and service learning. Programs at Arizona State University, the University of Maryland, and the University of Michigan are noted. (DB)