Designing Learning for Civic Engagement and Civil Discourse

The last several years have been marked by increasing polarization and diminishing capacity for civil discourse. Some educators may feel intimidated by the prospect of engaging learners in conversations related to civic engagement, fearing confrontational conversations among students, objections from parents, or reprisal from administrators. And yet, the purpose of education is, in part, to equip young people with the skills to be active, responsible participants in the democratic process.  Jewish education, specifically, is intended to help learners rely on their heritage as a source of inspiration and understanding as they navigate the everyday challenges of their lives. As Jewish educators, we are obligated to create safe spaces for our learners to explore their understanding of, and responsibility to, our government.

This Discussion Guide is intended to help Jewish educators address the topics of civil engagement and discourse. The videos included here are excerpts from a webinar hosted by The Jewish Education Project just days after the January 6 insurrection at the Capitol, featuring Dr. Tamara Mann Tweel, Director of Civic Initiatives at the Teagle Foundation, Hepzibah Alon of Facing History and Ourselves, and moderated by Rabbi Dena Klein of The Jewish Education Project.