#youngpeople #youthwork #informaleducation #politics #democracy #YWCR #participation #understandingperspectives #activity
Youth Work & Developing Democracy
With local elections happening arond the country at present and with a forthcoming general election, this adaptable activity is provided to gain insight into young people’s starting place and to establish the direction of travel in youth work to facilitate social, democratic and political awareness. If you do run the activity, why not post your findings in the members area of The Youth Work Common Room and share best practice on working with young people on democracy; access The Youth Work Common Room members area for free HERE
Running this activity as a quiz softens the way in which young people engage and participate. Using dialogue based methods or dry wipe board to capture the data from young people will assist in practitioners understanding the value of democracy and participation.
This is not a test of knowledge, but rather a key to understanding young people’s views and focus in relation to progressing the work around political education in the youth work you undertake. The majority of questions open important discussions regarding individual and group views on democracy, politics, power and how to move to social action inside and outside of youth work. Enjoy!
1. What is democracy?
a) A form of government where a single ruler holds all power
b) A system of government where the people hold the power and elect representatives
c) A system of government where the military controls all decisions
d) A system of government where only the wealthy have a say
2. Why is it important for young people to participate in democracy?
a) Because adults tell them to
b) Because it's fun
c) Because young people have unique perspectives and ideas that should be heard
d) Because they have nothing better to do
3. What are some ways young people can engage in democracy?
a) Voting in elections
b) Joining youth councils or organisations and being actively involved in youth centre management
c) Participating in protests and rallies
d) All of the above
4. True or False: Only adults can make a difference in democracy.
5. What is the voting age in most countries?
a) 16
b) 18
c) 21
d) 25
6. How can young people stay informed about political issues?
a) Reading newspapers and watching the news
b) Following political figures and organisations on social media
c) Attending town hall meetings and community events
d) All of the above
7. What is the purpose of a youth council or Youth Club Member Committee?
a) To plan social events for young people
b) To advise local government on issues affecting young people
c) To organise protests and demonstrations
d) To promote fashion trends among youth
8. How can young people advocate for change in their communities?
a) By writing letters to elected officials
b) By starting petitions
c) By organising community service projects, social action events or demonstrations
d) All of the above
9. What is the role of a political representative?
a) To make decisions without consulting the public
b) To represent the interests and concerns of their constituents
c) To serve their own personal interests
d) To avoid engaging with young people
10. How can young people encourage others to participate in democracy?
a) By leading by example
b) By educating their peers about the importance of democracy
c) By organising voter registration drives
d) All of the above
If you want to know more about working with young people around democracy and political education, get in touch to see how you can access support in design or training delivery with teams.
#youngpeople #youthwork #informaleducation #politics #democracy #YWCR #participation #understandingperspectives #activity
Have You Discussed Local and General Elections With Young People?
Yes
No