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iCivics

by Abigail Taylor
 

Ratings

Overall Rating:

5 stars
Content Quality: 5 stars
Effectiveness: 5 stars
Ease of Use: 4.75 stars
Reviewed: Nov 01, 2010 by Teacher Education
Overview: iCivics is a web-based education project designed to teach students civics and inspire them to be active participants in our democracy. iCivics is the vision of Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, who is concerned that students are not getting the information and tools they need for civic participation, and that civics teachers need better materials and support.
Learning Goals: This website is designed to help users understand how the Constitution was created, identify some of the key characteristics of the Constitution, identify key amendments and understand how they affect the citizens of the United States.
Target Student Population: Middle level, high school and college classes in political science. As well, pre-service teachers would benefit from this site.
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills: Ability to interact with simple computer-based games and simulations through manipulation of a mouse, keyboard or other command system.
Type of Material: Simulation
Recommended Uses: This site can be used effectively to engage K-12 students and lower division college level students in gaining a stronger and clearer understanding of the United States Constitution and the three branches of government and how they work. It can be used in class, for homework, or groupwork.
Technical Requirements: No special equipment required. The site works well with a standard web browser.

Evaluation and Observation

Content Quality

Rating: 5 stars
Strengths: All content of this site presents valid concepts and models of the Constitution and the way the three branches of government work and have an impact on the lives of every citizen. Content focuses on the essential understandings of civics education and meets national standards. The content is presented in such a way that any user should be able to understand the content and understand the concepts of the lesson through experiential opportunities. It immerses students in important topics that apply to the nation as a whole and to the student specifically.
Concerns: None.

Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool

Rating: 5 stars
Strengths: Learning objectives are clearly stated. The focal point of the site are the games and simulations related to the law, and how laws are made, interpreted and executed. Participating in the games puts the user in the decision-making role and presents consequences for each decision. In addition to the games, there are curriculum guides and WebQuests to further support the learning objectives. The learning objects on this site could be effectively integrated into any civics curriculum.
Concerns: No concerns about potential effectiveness.

Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty

Rating: 4.75 stars
Strengths: All information on the site is clearly labeled and users can get more information through mouse-overs and mouse clicks in multiple places. All links work well and load extremely fast. The games provide instructions that can be read before beginning the game or can be reviewed later. Games are designed to be played to completion over one standard class period.
Concerns: Not all students regularly play games, and it may take more time for some students to feel confident or competent in playing these games. Teachers should take this into consideration when planning time to use the games in class.

Other Issues and Comments: This is a very well constructed site. The content is excellent, and the opportunities for student engagement are many. It appears to be a vehicle for stimulating discussions and questions by students and perhaps generating more active interest in our government.
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