The Influence of Civic Knowledge versus Democratic School Experiences on Ethnic Tolerance of

In a society of rapid change and increasing complexity, there is a growing need for citizens to be informed, to be actively involved and to take up personal responsibility. However, research points out citizens no longer feel connected to society and that intolerance and distrust tend to increase. Therefore a crucial role has been granted to citizenship education from early ages on. This paper examines the impact of different school experiences on the attitudes of 14-year olds towards ethnic minorities, using the CivEd 1999 data. In particular, we compare the influence of civic knowledge versus democratic school experiences. By means of a multilevel analysis with individual, school and country variables we try to extend the knowledge on the impact of schools on ethnic tolerance of their students, after controlling for relevant background characteristics. An open classroom climate and a general confidence in school participation are important assets to promote ethnic tolerance. Civic knowledge, however, also remains an important predictor of a positive attitude towards ethnic minorities. This means that both knowledge and a democratic class and school climate seem to foster ethnic tolerance. Participation in th