Half the country may believe that something is deeply wrong after the November election. Some results from polls show people — and particularly younger people — are worried about the health of democracy.

Would it make a difference if there were requirements for civic education in higher education? Should students in Oregon be required to do civics coursework?

Oregon’s Higher Education Commission talked about it last week. There is a national effort to grow more civic learning in student’s studies in higher education, including in career and technical programs.

The goal of the Civic Learning and Democracy Engagement Coalition is more than just having students in college take a course in government in college. It’s to get students engaged in a project that helps the community. They want students to see higher education as more than a place to get ahead, but also learn about giving back and getting involved. It can develop skills. It can make a connection to the community a habit. It’s a way of building a better democracy.

What might Oregon do?

Oregon’s Higher Education Commission was just having a discussion. It wasn’t making decisions or recommendations for new requirements.

Would it be more important to require a course in how to make good choices about money, personal health, the environment? Is higher education the right place for any of that?

Tell the Higher Education Coordinating Commission what you think. Email Guthrie.stafford@hecc.oregon.gov.