CHARACTERIZATION OF CIVIC AWARENESS OF ADOLESCENTS: A COMPARATIVE STUDY IN ANDALUSIA

Abstract

INTRODUCTION. Construction of civic identity in adolescents is influenced by cultural and social capital of belonging for each student and also by two aspects of school organization: the academic contribution promoted by teaching of civic education (there are no substantial differences from the European Commission guidelines ), and by social relationships between schools and environment (it is important to consider new organizational models and relational, as well as methodological strategies). METHODS. Building on studies by Torney-Purta et al (2001) and Kennedy et al (2008), we study the formation of civic identity in adolescents through the use of a questionnaire (descriptive and factorial analysis). The research carried out by Injuve is a good empirical basis to justify the approach to understanding adolescent identity and awareness of the adolescent population in Andalusia and its contrast with other populations. RESULTS. Research findings reveal a population identified with conventional practices of citizenship (voting in elections, obeying democratic laws, etc.) and, on the other hand, the development of civic consciousness generated by local and family affairs. DISCUSSION. From this conclusion we put forward a proposal for learning citizenship practices in schools, based on an active learning methodology and volunteering in the community in order to promote awareness of active citizenship.