As suggested in the introductory sections of this topic area, some distinction needs to be made between voter information, voter education, and civic education (for a discussion of differing approaches to civic education see Alternative Approaches and Terminology). Certainly, each falls along a continuum of educational activities in support of elections and democracy and is mutually reinforcing. And, it would be correct to assume that voter education, for example, should be one component of a broader civic education programme.
But, the terms are not necessarily interchangeable and involve some nuanced differences in goals, audience, message, approach, timing, and/or institutional mandates. Briefly,
Voter Information refers to basic information enabling qualified citizens to vote, including the date, time, and place of voting; the type of election; identification necessary to establish eligibility; registration requirements, and mechanisms for voting. These constitute basic facts about the election and do not require the explaination of concepts. Messages will be developed for each new election. These activities can usually be implemented quickly (although sufficient planning is still required). Election authorities are typically required to provide this type of information, although contestants in the election and civil society organizations will also do so.
Voter Education typically addresses voters' motivation and preparedness to participate fully in elections. It pertains to relatively more complex types of information about voting and the electoral process and is concerned with concepts such as the link between basic human rights and voting rights; the role, responsibilities, and rights of voters; the relationship between elections and democracy and the conditions necessary for democratic elections; secrecy of the ballot; why each vote is important and its impact on public accountability; and how votes translate into seats. Such concepts involve explaination, not just a statement of facts. Voter education requires more lead time for implementation than voter information and, ideally, should be undertaken on an on-going basis. This type of information is most often provided by election authorities and civil soceity organizations.
In soceities where there have been major changes to electoral systems, processes, and procedures and in the case of the newly enfranchised and first time voters, both voter information and voter education programs will need to thoroughly address both facts and concepts.
Civic Education deals with broader concepts underpinning a democratic society such as the respective roles and responsibilities of citizens, government, political and special interests, the mass media, and the business and non-profit sectors as well as the significance of periodic and competitive elections. It emphasizes not only citizen awareness but citizen participation in all aspects of democratic society. Civic education is a continual process, not tied to the electoral cycle. Voter information and voter education, however, may be part of larger civic education endeavors. Civic education may be carried out through the school and university system, through civil society organizations, and perhaps by some state agencies, although not necessarily the election authority.
There are some common information and educational features. These are discussed in Information/Education Common Features.
