Ball State University to Host 2024 Civic Learning Symposium: Education, Dialogue, & Deliberation in Our Democracy

Topics: Teachers College, Muncie, Speakers, Faculty

August 14, 2024

The Center for Economic and Civic Learning (CECL) at Ball State University will host the 2024 Civic Learning Symposium Sept. 27-28 at the L.A. Pittenger Student Center. This annual event is a forum for faculty, educators, and community members to convene, share insights, and explore innovative approaches to civics, education, and community engagement.

The theme for this year's symposium, "Education, Dialogue, & Deliberation in Our Democracy," highlights the importance of dialogue and deliberation within the educational system and broader democratic society. In an era characterized by polarization and division, the theme also reflects the growing need to foster open, constructive conversations and thoughtful deliberation, bridge diverse perspectives, promote understanding, and cultivate a culture of civic responsibility.

"Civic education is the cornerstone of a democracy," CECL director and event organizer Dr. David Roof said. "By equipping 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."

Registration information for the 2024 Civic Learning Symposium can be found on the Eventbrite website.

Thematic Focus

• Encouraging open and respectful dialogue among diverse groups to build a stronger democracy.
• Exploring methods for engaging in meaningful deliberation and reaching consensus on civic issues.
• Examining the role of education in preparing active and engaged citizens.
• Enhancing democratic knowledge and commitment in schools and communities.
• Highlighting successful initiatives for empowering individuals as advocates for positive change.

Keynote Speakers

Sept. 27:

• Dr. Freeman A. Hrabowski, III., president emeritus of the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC): Dr. Hrabowski is renowned for his work in science and math education, focusing on minority participation and performance. His leadership and vision have earned him numerous accolades, including the Public Welfare Medal from the National Academy of Sciences for extraordinary use of science for the public good.

Sept. 28:

• Harry Boyte, founder of Public Achievement and a leading advocate for democracy and civic engagement: Mr. Boyte brings decades of experience empowering citizens and communities globally. His approach to civic engagement, known as the "public work" model, emphasizes collaborative action and participatory democracy to address societal challenges.

Participation and Proposal Submission

The symposium invites educators, practitioners, students, and community leaders to submit proposals that explore and expand the practice of dialogue and deliberation within educational settings and democratic contexts. Proposals for presentations, moderated discussions, workshops, case study discussions, and poster presentations were due June 28.

Key Partnerships and Co-Sponsors

• Indiana Bar Foundation: Advancing civic education through programs like the "We The People" initiative.
• Center on Representative Government: Promoting informed and engaged citizenship.
• The Remnant Trust: Presenting original copies of foundational U.S. texts to enrich civic understanding.

"The generous support from our co-sponsors, including the Indiana Bar Foundation, the Center on Representative Government, and the Remnant Trust, underscores the shared commitment to advancing civic understanding," Dr. Roof said. "Together, we are building a stronger foundation for civic learning and engagement."

For more information and inquiries about the Annual Civic Learning Symposium, contact the CECL at [email protected].