In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Nate McClennen sits down with Fernande Raine, founder of the History CoLab, to explore the critical role of civics and humanities in shaping the future of education and empowering young people. They discuss the intersection of crises—disconnection, democracy challenges, and AI disruption—and how these challenges demand a reinvention of civic education. The conversation highlights the "18 by 18" framework, which outlines 18 key learning journeys for students to complete by age 18, and the importance of designing education to foster participation, connection, and purpose. Dive into this insightful discussion to learn how fostering civic engagement and leveraging the humanities can equip students to thrive as active, purpose-driven citizens in an evolving world.

Outline

• (00:00) The State of Civics Education
• (09:25) Understanding the Three Crises
• (14:26) Historical Context of American Civics
• (19:08) Building Multi-Perspectivity in Learning
• (23:44) Purpose and Potential in Youth Development
• (28:26) Creating Meaningful Civic Experiences

Links

• Watch the full video here
• Read the full blog here
• LinkedIn
• History Co:Lab