Explaining that interest in law magnet programs has grown substantially in the 1990s, this ERIC digest analyzes these programs on the basis of information provided by 24 mostly urban magnet schools. The digest places law magnet programs within the broader context of law-related education (LRE). The primary purpose of law magnet programs is to…

Contends that teen courts offer powerful lessons in civic responsibility and that more than 150 are operating nationwide. Discusses establishment and educational strategies used in teen courts. Concludes that this law-related education program provides a creative solution to the delinquency dilemma. (CFR)

Argues that law-related education should move beyond teaching the mechanics and issues of government and include those concepts of civic virtue incorporated within democracy. Notes that students need philosophical and moral content as well as experiential learning. (MJP)

Postulates a connection between character education and social responsibility. Identifies the two essential skills necessary for character development as empathy and self-discipline. Discusses the role these play in developing a social conscience. (MJP)

This secondary core curriculum is written to communicate what students are expected to know and be able to do in social studies in the state of Utah. Students are expected to become active, responsible, concerned, and knowledgeable citizens. To achieve this purpose, the social studies program requires the acquisition of a social studies knowledge…

Explores the connection between teacher education paradigms and the promotion of active citizenship. Examines support for political education models in the Australian report, "Education for Active Citizenship." Inquires as to what directions for future action can be developed by matching teacher education paradigms with political…

Contemporary college students' apparent lack of exposure to citizenship, lack of concern for others, and ignorance of how to be involved citizens has prompted a call for involving students in volunteer service at the national level or as part of the undergraduate experience. This monograph begins by discussing volunteer programs as they relate to…

Endorses the movement, popular among parents and teachers, for implementing ethical instruction in the K-12 curriculum. Discusses the needs and benefits of such instruction. Examines the question of "whose values" are to be taught, and arrives at a consensus of core values, including honesty, compassion, self-discipline, and respect.…

Discusses the potential impact that the America 2000 reform effort might have on social studies and citizenship education. Argues that the preoccupation of America 2000 and the business community is short-sighted. Calls for social studies educators to recommit themselves. (CF)

Provides a selected list of workbooks and other curriculum materials to enhance character education instruction. Includes addresses and phone numbers for 13 research organizations such as the Ethics Resource Center and the Character Education Institute. (MJP)

Contends that pluralistic democracy relies on conflict of ideas and participative decision making. Reports on case studies of two different approaches to teaching world studies. Finds that both approaches encouraged students to participate actively, but others remained silent during the discussion. (CFR)

This handbook presents a description of the New York City Mentor program. It is designed to provide guidelines for the participating schools and law firms as well as an explanation of the program for potential participants. The program pairs law firms, solo practitioners, and corporate legal departments with public high schools. Lawyers visit…

Noting that law-related education (LRE) instills in its practitioners a strong desire to share its message with the world, this technical bulletin outlines the international activities of several LRE organizations. The Center for Civic Education hosts international visiting scholars, sponsors an annual conference that alternates between sites in…

Proclaiming that delinquency and violence among youth are neither uncontrollable nor inevitable, this technical bulletin argues that law-related education (LRE) can help young people overcome adverse environmental conditions by teaching the principles and skills needed to become responsible participants and active citizens. Although LRE cannot…

This document contains the national standards for civics and government for grades K-12. They are intended to help schools develop competent and responsible citizens who possess a reasoned commitment to the fundamental values and principles that are essential to the preservation and improvement of U.S. constitutional democracy. This document is…