Examining Civic Knowledge, Attitudes, And Participation Of Grade 11 Students: Inputs For A Civic Engagement Intervention Program

Abstract

Civic education plays a vital role in developing responsible and active citizens by strengthening students’ civic knowledge, attitudes, and participation in community and societal affairs. However, many students still demonstrate limited engagement in civic-related activities despite being exposed to civic concepts in school.

This study aimed to examine the level of civic knowledge, attitudes, and participation of Grade 11 students of Taal Senior High School and determine its implications for a proposed civic engagement intervention program. The study utilized a quantitative descriptive research design integrating survey questionnaires and statistical analysis in assessing students’ civic knowledge, attitudes, and participation. Data were collected from thirty (30) Grade 11 students of Taal Senior High School through a researcher-made questionnaire. Frequency, percentage, weighted mean, ranking, and composite mean were used to analyze the gathered data.

Findings revealed that the respondents demonstrated a generally moderate level of civic awareness and civic engagement, with composite means ranging from 2.98 to 3.50 interpreted as Agree. Students showed higher awareness in terms of citizens’ rights and responsibilities (3.50), while lower results were observed in civic discussion and participation in decision-making activities (2.98). In terms of civic engagement, students were more involved in voluntary and school-based activities, while participation in leadership and civic actions remained limited. Challenges identified included limited confidence in leadership roles, insufficient opportunities for participation, and minimal involvement in decision-making processes.

The findings imply that while students possess adequate civic knowledge and participate in basic civic activities, deeper engagement in leadership, civic discussions, and decision-making still requires improvement. The proposed school-based civic engagement intervention program may help strengthen students’ civic awareness, attitudes, and active participation in community and societal development. A school-based civic enhancement intervention program was proposed, which included Civic Awareness Week, Peer Education Program, Student Volunteer Club, Digital Citizenship and Technology activities, and Civic Environmental Engagement initiatives to strengthen students’ civic knowledge, attitudes, and participation.