A conceptual framework for digital civics pedagogy informed by the philosophy of information

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to draw on the philosophy of information, specifically the work of Luciano Floridi, to argue that digital civics must fully comprehend the implications of the digital environment, and consequently an informational ontology, to deliver to students an education that will prepare them for full participation as citizens in the infosphere.

Design/methodology/approach

Introducing this philosophy for use in education, the research discusses the ethical implications of ontological change in the digital age; informational organisms and their interconnectivity; and concepts of agency, both organic and artificial in digitally mediated civic interactions and civic education.

Findings

With the provision of a structural framework rooted in the philosophy of information, robust mechanisms for civics initiatives can be enacted.

Originality/value

The paper allows policy makers and practitioners to formulate healthy responses to digital age challenges in civics and civics education.

Citation

Clements, E. (2020), "A conceptual framework for digital civics pedagogy informed by the philosophy of information", Journal of Documentation, Vol. 76 No. 2, pp. 571-585. https://doi.org/10.1108/JD-07-2019-0139