Dierker's research on civic engagement among young people was recently featured in an article in The Burlington Times-News.
Catherine Dierker ’27 was featured in a recent Burlington Times-News article about her research exploring civic education and its role in strengthening democratic participation among young people. The story highlights Dierker’s research into how civic learning experiences influence political engagement, public awareness and community involvement.
A history major with teacher licensure from Marietta, Georgia, Dierker’s research project, “Improving Youth Voter Turnout: The Role of Civic Education in Modern Political Socialization”, examines how schools can better and further prepare students for active citizenship. Dierker presented the project at the Spring Undergraduate Research Forum in April.
“Students are more likely to participate in civic life when they feel empowered and connected to political systems,” Dierker said. “Schools that encourage critical thinking, respectful discussion and participatory learning help prepare students to become engaged citizens.”
While young voters have historically had lower turnout rates than older age groups, Dierker believes younger generations are engaging politically in new ways, particularly through social media and digital activism.
“Social media allows Gen Z to interact with a wide range of political viewpoints and participate in conversations on a much larger scale,” she told the Times-News. “At the same time, it can intensify political polarization and shape how young people perceive society.”