Advancing Civic Learning for an Engaged Democracy through the Institute on Engaged and Integrative Learning

Civic learning for an engaged democracy is an intentional approach that builds three elements into college students’ coursework: learning about democratic principles and levers for change; honing high-value skills; and developing practical experience through collaborative work in real-world settings. This approach is undergirded by students reflecting on their identities, practicing productive dialogue with those who disagree, and examining how choices affect individuals and their communities.

In December and February, the CLDE coalition hosted planning and action forums focused on civic learning for an engaged democracy. In July, during the AAC&U Institute on Engaged and Integrative Learning (IEIL), campus teams will have the opportunity to learn from and build on the work of those forums. Participating teams will collaborate with institute faculty and CLDE leaders to develop creative strategies for enlisting allies, setting equity and quality goals, building leadership support, and linking civic learning with diversity/inclusion and student success initiatives. Institute sessions will explore ways to embed civic inquiry in student success initiatives, general education, and career-related majors.

The 2023 IEIL is also held simultaneously with the Institute on Teaching and Learning for Campus-wide Interfaith Excellence, led by AAC&U and Interfaith America. Teams accepted to the Institute on Engaged and Integrative Learning or the Institute on Teaching and Learning for Campus-wide Interfaith Excellence have access to sessions and expert faculty from both Institutes.

Watch on-demand to learn how you and your campus could benefit from participating in the 2023 institute.