Teaching students citizenship instills values and develops a respect for others. A citizenship class can introduce topics on the country's laws and rules, the democratic process, rights, diversity and and how the economy works. Students learn about the value of democracy, justice, equality, and women's rights, for example.
Citizenship education gives students the opportunity to become compassionate, engaged citizens who, according to the Citizenship Foundation in the United Kingdom, "feel the effectiveness of getting involved." A class on citizenship might help students learn how to responsibly work on conflict resolution by taking part in meaningful debates. Citizenship classes also imply that an individual's voice is powerful and meaningful, a lesson that goes beyond classroom walls.
Students in a citizenship class receive, by default, lessons about their personal lives. A class in citizenship encourages young people to think for themselves and stand up for what they believe in. For instance, a student might be naturally shy. After learning about a cause that affects her emotionally, such as immigration discrimination, she may form a campaign or go on a speaking tour, surprising herself and her classmates. Learning about laws, offenses and historical problems in the country may also bring students together to form peaceful coalitions or to write to politicians seeking change.
Students in a citizenship course or degree program become knowledgeable about what it means to be a responsible citizen. Learning to understand and take part in the local and global community prepares young people -- and older students -- for difficulties and opportunities ahead. In a working life, for instance, a student going into academia or a student entering agriculture work will benefit from knowing how the system in which he lives works, and how his function in society is important.