Enhancing civic education through inclusive budgeting involving students with disabilities

What is it about?

Civic education helps students better participate in the public processes and solve issues in real life. It also helps improve their political skills. But many factors affect how students learn about being good citizens. These include race, how much money they have, and if they have any disabilities. So, it is essential that everyone receives a good civic education. A way to make civic education better for everyone is to let them decide how to spend money for the school. It means all students can give their ideas on how to make the school better. But does this also help students with disabilities? A new study examines what happens when students with disabilities are included in budgeting. The researchers wanted to see if this makes civic education even better. The researchers discovered that this method made all the students feel happier. They trusted each other more, felt like they belonged, and became closer as a group. The students with disabilities also improved at making friends, feeling confident, and caring about doing good for everyone.

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Photo by Carl Jorgensen on Unsplash

Photo by Carl Jorgensen on Unsplash

Why is it important?

The inequalities experienced by children can have effects on their adult lives. This is especially true among those with disabilities. The inequalities make it harder for them to participate in public activities. Students with disabilities often get fewer chances to join leadership programs in school when compared to their peers. The proposed method could bridge this gap. It can also make civic education fair for all students. KEY TAKEAWAY: The inclusive budgeting method improves civic education. It also benefits students with disabilities. It teaches important lessons for other school programs aiming to be fair and inclusive. This research relates to the following Sustainable Development Goals: • SDG 4: Quality Education • SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities • SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions