Young people and citizenship education: The impact of Citizenship on young people’s democratic engagement and participation

Understanding the Research Project

This research, commissioned by the Association for Citizenship Teaching, explores how educational experiences impact young people’s engagement with democratic life. Led by Professor Matt Henn from Nottingham Trent University, the academic team includes Professor James Sloam from Royal Holloway, University of London, and Dr. Ana Nunes from Nottingham Trent University. Together, they bring over 25 years of expertise in studying young people’s involvement in democracy, having worked with notable partners like the British Academy, Greater London Authority, and Nottingham City Council.

The Importance of Democratic Engagement

Research consistently shows that young people who are educated about democracy and civic participation are more likely to engage with political processes, whether by voting, taking part in discussions, or actively contributing to their communities. Schools and colleges are vital in preparing young people to be informed, active citizens, and this study investigates how educational factors influence democratic involvement across diverse backgrounds in the UK (Pontes, Henn, and Griffiths 2019; Sloam et al. 2021).

What We Aim to Learn

This project seeks to understand the factors that inspire young people to become politically active and socially engaged. By examining how educational experiences impact attitudes toward voting, political awareness, and broader civic participation, we aim to identify effective strategies for encouraging democratic engagement among young people in the UK.

Why This Matters

In recent years, there has been growing concern about declining voter turnout and reduced engagement with democratic institutions among young people. This research responds to that concern, aiming to provide insights for educators, policymakers, and communities invested in fostering democratic resilience in the UK.

How You Can Participate

We invite young people aged 16-19 across the UK to share their perspectives through an online survey. Schools, colleges, and universities are encouraged to support the study by promoting this survey to students, either in scheduled sessions or independently.

• Educators: To help facilitate participation, we’ve prepared a PowerPoint presentation that gives context to the survey, which takes just 15 minutes to complete. Download the PDF version of the presentation if preferred.
• Young people aged 16-19: Share your voice and insights on democracy and civic engagement by completing the survey here: Survey Link.

Help Shape the Future of Youth Participation in Democracy

By participating, you’ll be contributing to an important conversation about the role of education in building a more active and informed democracy. Your responses will help us understand how to better support young people in becoming empowered citizens, ready to participate and make a difference in their communities and beyond.

Survey Deadline: December 20, 2024