Journal article

Authors list: Abendschön, Simone; Kleer, B. Philipp; Faas, Thorsten

Publication year: 2022

Pages: 153-171

Journal: Citizenship, Social and Economics Education

Volume number: 21

Issue number: 3

DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.1177/14788047221120682

Publisher: SAGE Publications

Abstract: 

Strengthening political knowledge and democratic understanding of children is an essential aim of citizenship education. In Germany, most curricula of civic education target high school students, neglecting younger children in elementary school. The present study investigates the impact of an out-of-school program for elementary school students at a state parliament on their political knowledge and political interest. The program introduces the students to parliamentary institutions, processes, and decision-making. Among other didactical elements, the students participate in a simulation of a plenary session. The article examines the short-term and long-term effects of program attendance with a quasi-experimental design. The findings show that the out-of-school program positively affects children's political knowledge and interest, thereby confirming that civic education can already be effective at the elementary school level. By implementing such interactive learning programs, schools and teachers could positively contribute to young citizens' political socialization.

Harvard Citation style: Abendschön, S., Kleer, B. and Faas, T. (2022) Out-of-school learning as an effective tool of civic education in elementary school? Evidence from Germany, Citizenship, Social and Economics Education, 21(3), pp. 153-171. https://doi.org/10.1177/14788047221120682

APA Citation style: Abendschön, S., Kleer, B., & Faas, T. (2022). Out-of-school learning as an effective tool of civic education in elementary school? Evidence from Germany. Citizenship, Social and Economics Education. 21(3), 153-171. https://doi.org/10.1177/14788047221120682