Abstract Book of the 2nd International Academic Conference on Teaching and Education
Year: 2025
[PDF]
The Role of Communication Studies in Developing Civic Engagement in U.S. Higher Education
Samuel Oluwaseyi Oduyela
ABSTRACT:
In an era marked by social division, misinformation, and declining civic participation, higher education institutions face the urgent task of preparing students to engage responsibly in democratic life. This paper explores the pivotal role of Communication Studies—particularly public speaking and media literacy—in fostering civic engagement among college students in the United States. Drawing on theoretical frameworks and classroom practices, the study examines how communication instruction develops critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and active participation in public discourse.
Public speaking courses empower students to express informed opinions on social, political, and cultural issues, often through assignments that simulate real-life civic contexts such as town halls or advocacy campaigns. Simultaneously, media literacy instruction equips students with essential skills to evaluate information sources, identify bias, and resist misinformation—skills that are foundational to informed citizenship in a digital age.
The paper includes case studies and student feedback from institutions such as Blinn College, illustrating how these courses not only enhance communication competencies but also inspire tangible civic action. It also addresses challenges such as political sensitivities and the need for inclusive pedagogy, offering strategies for fostering engagement across diverse student populations.
Ultimately, the paper argues that Communication Studies is uniquely positioned to serve as a cornerstone for civic learning in higher education. By integrating civic themes into communication curricula, educators not only prepare students for academic and professional success but also cultivate the values and habits essential to sustaining democratic society.
Keywords: Civic Engagement, Communication Studies, Higher Education, Media Literacy, Public Speaking