America 250: Civics, Education & What's Ahead, Archeologist Gerry Scharfenberger and Laura Overdeck

Civics Education

Teaching Kids to Think, Not What to Think
Why critical thinking and everyday civic learning matter for the next generation

Civics Education
At a time when conversations can quickly become louder than they are thoughtful, one question deserves greater attention: Are we teaching children what to think, or are we teaching them how to think?
Civic learning does not begin when someone becomes old enough to vote. It begins much earlierin classrooms, at kitchen tables and on playgrounds. It takes shape when children learn to ask questions, consider evidence, solve problems, listen to different perspectives and understand that they are part of something larger than themselves.
Critical thinking may be one of the most valuable civic skills we can give the next generation. Young people who are encouraged to question information, understand numbers and explore more than one point of view are better prepared to make thoughtful decisions. They also learn that disagreement does not have to become disrespect.
Teaching civics well is not about telling children what to believe. It is about helping them understand how their communities work, why facts matter and how their choices affect others. It is also about nurturing curiosity, responsibility and empathy. qualities that matter in school, at work and throughout life.
A stronger civic culture will not be built through agreement on every issue. It will be built by raising young people who are informed, open-minded and confident enough to think for themselvesand respectful enough to listen when someone else does the same.
The goal is not to teach children what to think. It is to give them the tools, knowledge and courage to think well.