Simulations of Democratic Processes

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Simulations of Democratic Processes

Teachers provide opportunities for students to participate in simulations of democratic processes–including mock elections, moot courts, problem-solving, consideration of dilemmas, interactive case studies, and scenarios, and online games–that allow students to learn about issues and practice civic skills in multiple disciplines by:

Reserving sufficient time for each simulation in order to learn challenging skills and concepts and build background knowledge
Discussing how lessons learned in the simulation may apply in other contexts, including in local communities and society
Building on student life experiences and knowledge of democratic structures and institutions
Creating time for reflection and processing to understand the concepts and application of simulations

Concept Map

Definition

Opportunities for students to participate in mock elections, moot courts, problem solving, interactive case studies, and online games which invoke civic learning and engagement

Evidence

Student reflections on Constitution Day and Local Government Day
Curriculum maps from various academic departments
Student clubs/organizations which encourage simulations of democratic processes such as Student Government or Mock Trial Teams.
Student government agendas and minutes

Examples

Mock trials
Constitutional Convention
“You be the Judge”
Legislative forum
Curriculums such as Choices Program from Brown University and we.org
Model United Nations
Online civic learning games through iCivics
Henrietta Lacks mock trial in Science class
Eva Peron mock trial in World Language class
“Design Your School” — budgeting, board meeting
Labor simulations from DePaul University
Ethical dilemmas

Connections to Principles of “Lived Civics”

Activities in courses and clubs/ organizations speak to students’ lived experiences and identities
Discussions of power and privilege are intentionally woven into role-playing and case studies
Discussion circles to reflect on simulations are safe spaces where all voices are encouraged to be heard
Simulations task students with making connections of the activity to their local community or larger societies

Case Study

Round Lake High School students are offered the opportunity to partake in a variety of democratic simulations. There are obvious opportunities for simulations ingrained into the curriculum of their government courses. These include mock congressional debates, bill hearings, and jury deliberations. However, these democratic simulations are not limited to the social sciences. Ninth grade students are also exposed to jury deliberations and discussions on race relations through the acting out of Twelve Angry Men. Furthermore, the entire school participates in an annual mock election through partnerships with the Lake County Board of Elections and the League of Women Voters, who are both partners they have worked with in previous years.

Additionally, as part of keeping true to the Democracy School mission, the school has created another democratic simulation that incorporates student voice. The Panther Action Congress is a truly representative student government with reserved spots for students from all levels, including English language learners and students with IEPs. In order to be as inclusive as possible, supports for students are provided as needed and all of the meetings times take place during the school day as a means of allowing all to participate.