LIBS 125: Apathy 2 Action: Amer Citznshp

Course Description

An examination of American citizenship as understood and practices in a variety of arenas of public life. We will examine both historical and contemporary perspectives on citizenship, including the ways in which public discourse helps situate Americans? understanding of the idea of citizenship, and by extension, the practice of democracy. In addition to exploring citizenship as it operates in the political arena and civil society, we will emphasize the role of higher education in nurturing active citizenship. This seminar includes an academic service learning requirement. Academic service learning is an educational method that integrates volunteer community service with course material to enhance the learning objectives of the course. Students will be expected to participate in a carefully-chosen and instructor-approved civic activity (e.g., volunteerism, democratic participation, public advocacy) that will highlight different models of citizenship in practice.