IDS 2338 – Democratic Engagement and Public Leadership

About The Course

Beyond being a member of a nation or state, Merriam-Webster defines "citizenship" as "the qualities that a person is expected to have as a responsible member of a community." What does citizenship mean to you within a democratic republic like the U.S.? Being a citizen conveys responsibilities each individual must meet in order to keep any democracy healthy and functioning. Citizenship is not a passive notion, but a dynamic active experience. To fulfill one’s role as a citizen, it requires an individual to be both informed and engaged.

Course Goals

By the end of this course, students will:

• Provide the background in U.S. History and Government for the context of understanding the individuals’ role within a democratic republic.
• Through critical thinking, analysis, and evaluation, develop the skills to engage in productive civil discourse.
• Construct and defend a policy stance concerning a current social, political, or economic issue through the use of basic academic research practices.
• Reflect upon and evaluate methods of civic activism.

Satisfied High School Graduation Requirement Subject: Elective
High School Credit: 0.5

• Sample Syllabus