How institutional contexts influence the civic development of students at three Mexican universities

The purpose of every university is to contribute to the public good by educating socially responsible, civically minded, engaged citizens. In the context of a developing country such as Mexico, with multiple challenges of social, political and economic order, the role of universities in preparing future leaders and civically engaged citizens is fundamental. The purpose of this qualitative inquiry based on grounded theory is to determine how undergraduate students at three universities in Mexico become civically and politically engaged during their university years; and to understand how the institutional context influences the student\u27s interest and disposition to participate. The sites of the study included one public research institution, one private technical research university and one private faith-based university all located in Monterrey. The study provides an understanding of the student\u27s engagement process: his motivations, the factors that enhance or mitigate his interest, and the benefits he receives from participating. Findings revealed that the institutional context is relevant to foster civic participation with the mission, curriculum, support from the faculty, deans and staff, and a diverse co-curricular offer that act as positive forces to promote the student\u27s engagement. The universities have three mechanisms to engage the student: curriculum based activities, the student government and other groups, and the mandatory community service experience. The potential of these resources is mostly overlooked by universities. A powerful tool to engage students is the community service experience but the design and purpose of the program needs to be revised to transform it into a meaningful and more effective experience. Exposing the student to different social realities makes him or her aware of others, and more willing to become involved. Recommendations for universities to intentionally foster the student\u27s civic and political engagement are included