EDN 212 - Public Education and Democracy

The course examines the concepts, principles, and practices of American democracy through the lens of public education, a central institution in sustaining and advancing democratic life. Public schooling in the United States was conceived as a civic enterprise. Thomas Jefferson asserted that the purpose of public schools was “to understand his duties to his neighbours, & country, and to discharge with competence the functions confided to him by either” (1818). This course builds on that premise, situating the founding documents and milestone texts of the American republic within the broader effort to cultivate an educated citizenry capable of self-governance.  

Credit Hours: 3

University Studies: Approaches and Perspectives/Foundations of American Democracy, Approaches and Perspectives/Living in Our Changing Nation, Approaches and Perspectives/Understanding Human Institutions and Behaviors, Building Competencies/Writing Intensive
Course Repeatability: Course may not be repeated.