SED2601
Assignment 3
EXCEPTIONAL ANSWERS
Due: 23 July 2025
,SED2601
Assignment 3
23 July 2025
Question 1: Fundamental Concepts of Democracy and Citizenship
1.1 Understanding Core Political and Educational Constructs
a) Modern Democracy
Modern democracy is a political system characterized by the sovereignty of the people,
where citizens participate in decision-making either directly or through elected
representatives (Held, 2006). Unlike direct ancient Greek democracy, contemporary
democracy predominantly operates via representative institutions, elections, and
constitutional protections. It emphasizes universal suffrage, political equality, and the
safeguarding of civil liberties such as freedom of speech, assembly, and the right to a
fair trial (Dahl, 1989). While promoting equality before the law, debates continue about
whether modern democracies effectively address socio-economic inequalities that may
limit genuine political participation and social justice.
b) Citizenship Education
Citizenship education is a systematic process aimed at equipping individuals with the
knowledge, skills, values, and dispositions needed to participate responsibly and
effectively in civic life (Ichilov, 1990). It involves fostering understanding of political
systems, rights, and responsibilities, as well as developing critical awareness, active
engagement, and a sense of social responsibility. This education extends beyond rote
civics lessons to include experiential learning, community involvement, and fostering
democratic values.
, 1.2 Approaches to Citizenship Education: Active vs. Passive
Passive/Transmissive Approach: Focuses on transmitting factual knowledge about
government, laws, and civic duties via lectures and textbooks. It fosters a compliant,
informed citizenry but risks promoting uncritical acceptance and apathy (Biesta, 2011).
Active/Participatory Approach: Emphasizes critical thinking, engagement, and action,
involving debates, community projects, simulations, and democratic decision-making
within classrooms. Inspired by Paulo Freire’s (1970) concept of "conscientization," it
aims to produce empowered citizens capable of social change.
Preferred Approach:
I strongly advocate for the active/participatory approach because it cultivates
democratic competencies, agency, and social responsibility. It prepares learners to
critically analyze societal issues, participate meaningfully in democratic processes, and
become change agents—traits essential for a thriving democracy like South Africa’s.
1.3 Main Features of the Apartheid State in South Africa
The apartheid state was characterized by:
1. Racial Classification and Segregation: Enforced by laws like the Group Areas
Act (1950), which assigned individuals to racial categories (Black, White,
Coloured, Indian) and segregated residential, educational, and social spaces,
thereby institutionalizing racial inequalities and maintaining white supremacy
(Posel, 2001).
2. Political Disenfranchisement and Authoritarianism: The system denied Black
South Africans voting rights and political participation, relegating them to
ethnically defined homelands with limited sovereignty. The regime used
oppressive laws, surveillance, and violence to suppress opposition, establishing
an authoritarian regime based on racial hierarchy (Thompson, 1990).
Assignment 3
EXCEPTIONAL ANSWERS
Due: 23 July 2025
,SED2601
Assignment 3
23 July 2025
Question 1: Fundamental Concepts of Democracy and Citizenship
1.1 Understanding Core Political and Educational Constructs
a) Modern Democracy
Modern democracy is a political system characterized by the sovereignty of the people,
where citizens participate in decision-making either directly or through elected
representatives (Held, 2006). Unlike direct ancient Greek democracy, contemporary
democracy predominantly operates via representative institutions, elections, and
constitutional protections. It emphasizes universal suffrage, political equality, and the
safeguarding of civil liberties such as freedom of speech, assembly, and the right to a
fair trial (Dahl, 1989). While promoting equality before the law, debates continue about
whether modern democracies effectively address socio-economic inequalities that may
limit genuine political participation and social justice.
b) Citizenship Education
Citizenship education is a systematic process aimed at equipping individuals with the
knowledge, skills, values, and dispositions needed to participate responsibly and
effectively in civic life (Ichilov, 1990). It involves fostering understanding of political
systems, rights, and responsibilities, as well as developing critical awareness, active
engagement, and a sense of social responsibility. This education extends beyond rote
civics lessons to include experiential learning, community involvement, and fostering
democratic values.
, 1.2 Approaches to Citizenship Education: Active vs. Passive
Passive/Transmissive Approach: Focuses on transmitting factual knowledge about
government, laws, and civic duties via lectures and textbooks. It fosters a compliant,
informed citizenry but risks promoting uncritical acceptance and apathy (Biesta, 2011).
Active/Participatory Approach: Emphasizes critical thinking, engagement, and action,
involving debates, community projects, simulations, and democratic decision-making
within classrooms. Inspired by Paulo Freire’s (1970) concept of "conscientization," it
aims to produce empowered citizens capable of social change.
Preferred Approach:
I strongly advocate for the active/participatory approach because it cultivates
democratic competencies, agency, and social responsibility. It prepares learners to
critically analyze societal issues, participate meaningfully in democratic processes, and
become change agents—traits essential for a thriving democracy like South Africa’s.
1.3 Main Features of the Apartheid State in South Africa
The apartheid state was characterized by:
1. Racial Classification and Segregation: Enforced by laws like the Group Areas
Act (1950), which assigned individuals to racial categories (Black, White,
Coloured, Indian) and segregated residential, educational, and social spaces,
thereby institutionalizing racial inequalities and maintaining white supremacy
(Posel, 2001).
2. Political Disenfranchisement and Authoritarianism: The system denied Black
South Africans voting rights and political participation, relegating them to
ethnically defined homelands with limited sovereignty. The regime used
oppressive laws, surveillance, and violence to suppress opposition, establishing
an authoritarian regime based on racial hierarchy (Thompson, 1990).
