What are some long-term effects of civic education?

Students who recall having received better civic education are more likely to be engaged. Discussing current controversial issues seems to boost knowledge and interest. Service-learning is helpful if students feel that they have addressed important social issues. Belonging to student groups increases engagement in community life and politics.

An evaluation of the Kids Voting USA civics curriculum found that, two years after the program ended, students who participated were still more likely to discuss current issues outside of class and to follow the news than their counterparts who did not participate.