The Development of Civic Competence in Higher Education to Support a Sustainable Society: The Case of Latvian Higher Education

Abstract

When examining the crucial role of civic competence in fostering sustainable societies, economies, and ecosystems, its significance for cultivating responsible and engaged citizens in our ever more interconnected global landscape must be recognized. Notably, education influences the development of civic competence throughout the learning experience at all levels of education. This research aims to explore the evolution of students’ self-assessment in terms of civic competence and its three subcompetences. The objective is to comprehend the present status of students’ self-assessments and explore their potential impact on the formation of a sustainable society. Data were collected for this study using an assessment tool elaborated in the ESF project “Development and Implementation of the Education Quality Monitoring System” for students’ generic competences. The tool, presented in a digital form using the QuestionPro platform, measures six generic competences, including civic competence. A total of 1166 bachelor’s degree students and 354 master’s degree students participated in this study, representing 22 Latvian higher education institutions. This study’s findings indicate that civic competence in the sample is considerably lower than the other generic competences measured, with a greater dispersion of results. The results also highlight specific areas within universities that require improvement during the learning process to cultivate individuals who are sustainable and socially responsible members of society.

Civic Education and its Role in Social Stabilization: A Comprehensive Review

“…At its core, civic education embodies the principles of democracy, citizenship, and civic engagement, seeking to empower individuals with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary for active participation in the civic life of their communities and nations (Medne et al, 2024). Rooted in the ideals of enlightenment philosophy and the democratic revolutions of the 18th century, civic education emerged as a response to the need for an informed and enlightened citizenry capable of governing themselves and contributing to the common good (Jurs et al, 2022).…”