CIRCLE and Civic Learning In Illinois: Research, Practice, and Impact
For close to 20 years, CIRCLE has been supporting efforts to improve and expand civic education in Illinois. What began as an indirect relationship in which our research informed efforts by educators and policymakers in the state has transformed into a deep, innovative research-practice partnership including major evaluations, support for teacher professional learning, and institutional relationships that have transformed our efforts toward equitable civic learning for all.
A Partnership for Learning and Impact
Learn more about the history, key initiatives, and major impact of CIRCLE's relationship with Illinois Civics Hub and other leaders in the state's civic learning ecosystem.
Major Evaluations and Reports
Middle School Civics Implementation
CIRCLE conducted an extensive two-year study of progress implementing middle school civics in Illinois following a new law, pedagogical mandates, and content requirements in the state.
Microcredential Courses for Teachers
CIRCLE's evaluation of the Guardians of Democracy microcredential program has established its value as an effective and innovative professional development opportunity.
High School Civics Implementation
CIRCLE's evaluation of civic learning after a new high school civics law in Illinois helped make the case for the importance of civic education policy and implementation support.
Impact Beyond Illinois
The data, insights, and co-created learning from our partnerships in Illinois have deeply informed our work on civic education, with impact that goes far beyond the state. Below are some of the studies and initiatives in which we have put what we've learned into practice.
Educating for American Democracy Roadmap
CIRCLE Director Kei Kawashima-Ginsberg is the lead author of the EAD Roadmap's pedagogy companion, and CIRCLE launched a Teacher Leadership Task Force to support educators.
The CIRCLE Growing Voters Framework
The CIRCLE Growing Voters report makes major recommendations about the kind of civic education that will help prepare youth for democracy, based in part on what we've seen work in Illinois.
Research in Other States
Based on what we've learned about studying civic learning, CIRCLE has conducted evaluations of policy, curricula, and civic experiences in other states, most recently Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
Key Partners and Funders
