The Center for Economic and Civic Learning (CECL) at Ball State University is gearing up to host the 2024 Civic Learning Symposium on September 27-28 at the L.A. Pittenger Student Center. This annual event serves as a platform for faculty, educators, and community members to come together, exchange ideas, and explore innovative approaches to civics, education, and community engagement.
The theme for this year’s symposium, „Education, Dialogue, & Deliberation in Our Democracy,“ underscores the significance of fostering dialogue and deliberation within both the educational system and the broader democratic society. In a time marked by polarization and division, the theme emphasizes the growing necessity of promoting open, constructive conversations, bridging diverse perspectives, fostering understanding, and nurturing a culture of civic responsibility.
Dr. David Roof, the director of CECL and the event organizer, emphasized the pivotal role of civic education in a democracy. „By providing educators and students with the tools to engage in civil discourse and informed decision-making, we are investing in the future of our communities, state, and nation,“ Dr. Roof stated.
The symposium will focus on several key thematic areas, including encouraging open and respectful dialogue among diverse groups, exploring methods for meaningful deliberation on civic issues, examining the role of education in cultivating active citizens, enhancing democratic knowledge and commitment, and showcasing successful initiatives for empowering individuals as advocates for positive change.
The event will feature distinguished keynote speakers on each day of the symposium. On September 27, Dr. Freeman A. Hrabowski, III, president emeritus of the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), will share his expertise in science and math education, particularly focusing on minority participation and performance. Dr. Hrabowski’s leadership has garnered him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Public Welfare Medal from the National Academy of Sciences.
On September 28, Harry Boyte, the founder of Public Achievement and a prominent advocate for democracy and civic engagement, will bring his wealth of experience in empowering citizens and communities worldwide. Mr. Boyte’s „public work“ model emphasizes collaborative action and participatory democracy to address societal challenges.
The symposium also invited educators, practitioners, students, and community leaders to submit proposals for presentations, moderated discussions, workshops, case study discussions, and poster presentations that explore and expand the practice of dialogue and deliberation within educational and democratic contexts.
Dr. Roof expressed gratitude for the support from key partners and co-sponsors, including the Indiana Bar Foundation, the Center on Representative Government, and the Remnant Trust. These partnerships underscore a shared commitment to advancing civic understanding and building a stronger foundation for civic learning and engagement.
For those interested in learning more about the Annual Civic Learning Symposium or submitting inquiries, they can contact the CECL at cecl@bsu.edu. The symposium promises to be a valuable opportunity for attendees to engage in meaningful discussions, gain insights, and contribute to the advancement of civic education and engagement in our democracy.