Engagement: Civic Engagement

Awakening Democracy through Public Work shows that we can free the productive powers of people to work across lines and differences to build a better society and create grounded hope for the future.

The book emphasizes the importance of dialogue and deliberation in today's polarized society. It guides educators in fostering these practices on campus to enhance civic engagement and democratic participation. Through insights from leading practitioners, it offers methods and approaches to create inclusive and productive learning environments.

Combining extensive research with Gee's own decades of leadership experience, Land-Grant Universities for the Future argues that these schools are the engine of higher education in America--and perhaps democracy's best hope. This book should be of great interest to faculty members and students, as well as those parents, legislators, policymakers, and other area stakeholders who have a vested interest in the well-being of America's original public universities.

Cooper delves into the potential of civic engagement to revitalize the humanities amidst an identity crisis. His essays confront key issues like the public role of humanities, teaching methods, and institutional reform. Through insightful analysis, he advocates for reflection, renewal, and reform in humanities education, addressing contemporary challenges.

Regional Perspectives on Learning by Doing offers a diverse array of innovative teaching and research strategies from engaged universities--from Australia, Egypt, Malaysia, Mexico, Scotland, South Africa, and the United States--that demonstrates how learning by doing elevates students' consciousness and develops their civic capabilities. While dealing creatively with pressing societal challenges, university students and others are learning together how to operate effectively in high- conflict situations; fashion bold approaches to combating poverty, promoting sustainability, and elevating public health; organize coalitions for change that bridge social and economic divides; and strengthen democratic decision-making in local communities and higher levels of governance. Students and teachers alike will gain valuable insight into building thriving communities as well as the tools to do so.

The book examines if universities exacerbate global crises or offer hope. Amid debates on rankings and finance, it addresses urgent issues like COVID-19, climate change, decolonization, and gender violence. Through diverse global perspectives, it advocates for socially responsible higher education to foster a transition to a better world.