Civic Knowledge is the recognition that knowledge is dynamic, changing, and consistently reevaluated; understanding that knowledge is socially constructed and implicated with power; familiarity with key historical struggles, campaigns, and social movements to achieve the full promise of democracy; deep knowledge about the fundamental principles of and central arguments about democracy over time, as expressed in the United States and in other countries; and the ability to describe the main civic intellectual debates within one’s major (Hatcher, 2009).

Civic Engagement is "working to make a difference in the civic life of our communities and developing the combination of knowledge, skills, values and motivation to make that difference. It means promoting the quality of life in a community, through both political and non-political processes" (Ehrlich, 2000). In addition, civic engagement encompasses actions wherein individuals participate in activities of personal and public concern that are both individually life enriching and socially beneficial to the community (Association of American Colleges and Universities, n.d.).

Community responsibilities are an individual's duties or obligations to the community and include cooperation, respect and participation. The concept goes beyond thinking and acting as individuals to common beliefs about shared interests and life (Nanzer, n.d.).

In addition, civic knowledge and responsibility encompasses actions wherein individuals participate in activities of personal and public concern that are both individually life enriching and socially beneficial to the community.

Below are some resources to help you learn more about the competencies of civic knowledge and community responsibility:

Article

Civic Skills (Learning to Give)

TED Talk