Forms of Youth Political Participation and Educational System: The Role of the School for 8th Grade Students in Chile

Abstract

This article analyses the role of school in different forms of expected political participation of 8th grade students in Chile. The massive students’ public demonstrations in Chile in the last ten years and the low rate of young voters’ turnout in elections have raised the question about young people’s preparation to participate as citizens in society. The results show that students’ civic and political background has the greatest influence in political participation, while the influence of school is mainly related to school governance and teacher practices. This discussion focused on the challenges that these results could mean for schools in Chile.