The Role of Social Education in Developing Students’ Social Awareness and Civic Responsibility

Abstract

Social education plays a crucial role in preparing students to respond to increasingly complex social realities in contemporary society. Amid globalization, digital transformation, and cultural diversity, education is expected not only to transmit knowledge but also to foster social awareness and civic responsibility. This study examines the contribution of social education to the development of students’ social awareness and civic responsibility in formal educational settings. Using a qualitative descriptive approach through a systematic literature review of publications from the last five years, the findings show that social education enhances students’ critical thinking, empathy, and social sensitivity by linking social concepts to real-life experiences. Contextual, dialogic, and participatory learning approaches also strengthen civic attitudes and encourage active social engagement.  Social education functions as a transformative practice that shapes students’ social consciousness and ethical responsibility.