Civic Education.

Knowledge of civics among 14-year-old students and their attitudes toward democratic processes were explored in a recent study released by the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement.

The findings of the study are contained in a report, "Citizenship and Education in 28 Countries: Civic Knowledge and Engagement at Age Fourteen." The study revealed:

* Students in most countries have an understanding of fundamental democratic values and institutions, but this understanding is often superficial;

* Schools that model democratic practices in classrooms are most effective in promoting civic knowledge and engagement among students;

* Young people agree that good citizenship includes the obligation to vote and obey the law. However, four out of five students do not intend to participate in conventional political activities;

* Students are willing to become engaged in other forms of civic life such as collecting money for a social cause or charity; and

* Students across countries are moderately trusting of their government institutions. The courts and police are trusted the most followed by national and local governments.

The entire report can be accessed at www. wam.umd.edu/[sim]iea.