Mike Smith:
This week, we'll be talking with Kathy Privrat, the executive director of StudentNewsDaily.com. Kathy, we're glad to have you on the show.
Kathy Privrat:
And I'm glad to be here, Mike. Thank you so much for inviting me.
Mike:
Kathy, why would you say it's important for young people to study current events?
Kathy:
Well, Mike, studying current events helps students to understand the importance of people and issues in the news. If students understand the issues, they won't say, "Who cares?" or "This is boring!" But they'll be challenged to discuss current events. It also helps them to clarify their own point of view on the issues and defend it with facts or sound reasons. It's also necessary to study current events to become informed voters. Who our government officials are affects us and our families. It's been said that informed citizens are essential to the function of a free society.
And I just want to encourage parents to remember that if your high school-age kids say that they aren't interested in studying current events, you're not alone. Studies show that teenagers are generally not interested in current events, but evidence also suggests that including current events in the curriculum can increase interest. From my experience as a high school teacher, I found that to be true.
Mike:
Thank you, Kathy. Next time, we'll be discussing media bias. And until next time, I'm Mike Smith.
