Assessing the Head, Heart, and Hands of Civic Learning
From Data Lit by Data, Research, and Accountability
March 9, 2026 · 22 min · Season 6 · Episode 12
About this episode
This episode explores how civic learning can be assessed beyond traditional exams using a comprehensive framework.
Is a student's understanding of civics best measured by a multiple-choice exam? In this episode of Data Lit , we examine this question by unpacking how we assess civic learning in educational spaces. Using a “Head, Heart, and Hands" framework for defining civics, we discuss how educators can use performance tasks, capstone projects, and rubrics to measure “unmeasurable" skills like civil discourse and community problem-solving. Tune in to learn how we can transform civic data from a simple score into a roadmap for active and informed citizenship. Research & resources from the episode: Center for Assessment: Assessing Civic Learning Promoting K-12 Learning and Civic Engagement through Assessments DRA’s Assessment Literacy Course Validity and Reliability Video Cult of Pedagogy: Meet the Single-Point Rubric WCPSS staff can earn credit for listening to and reflecting on completed series. Learn more here . Theme music by Millbrook High School’s Tre’mond Ponton Hosts: Mellisa Smith and Spencer Ziegler Contact us via our website or at datalit@wcpss.net Data, Research, and Accountability department for the Wake County Public School System
People in this episode
Hosts: Mellisa Smith, Spencer Ziegler
Topics covered
- civic learning
- assessment
- education
- performance tasks
- civil discourse
- community problem-solving
Keywords
- civics
- assessment
- education
- performance tasks
- rubrics
- active citizenship
- community engagement
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Center for Assessment, Cult of Pedagogy, Wake County Public School System
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