Abstract

The principal aim of this study is to highlight how students in 8th grade of middle school perceive the principal concepts present in Citizenship Education (lessons), namely the values of: citizenship, (personal) rights, responsibility, the state, the law, military service, the right to education, the right to vote and participate in the political process, equality and freedom. The study was conducted using a phenomenological reseacrh model/design which is a type of qualitative research method. The participants in the study comprised of students receiving education at middle school level. While the sample group consisted of a total of 6 students, 3 of which were female and 3 of which were male selected using a purposeful sampling method. As a data collection tool, a partially-completed interview form was used prepared in accordance with the aims of the study. The data obtained from these interviews with the participants were then analyzed and interpreted following the steps prescribed in the phenomenological design model. On examining the results of the study, it was observed that both male and female students held similar views with regard to concepts of citienship which corresponded to various perspectives formed in accordance with their own semantic worlds/interpretations of meaning. Their general perceptions towards the key concepts, were seen to correspond to the learning objectives that the school aimed/intended to teach.

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