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A healthy democracy fundamentally relies upon informed and engaged citizens. Yet, voter knowledge—the extent to which voters understand political processes, policies, and candidate positions—varies widely, shaping electoral outcomes and influencing democratic governance. This research project critically examines contemporary trends in voter knowledge, delving into political science theories, political behavior literature, and government and politics scholarship. Participants will conduct an extensive literature review, synthesizing insights from political theory, behavioral science, and empirical studies on voter information and misinformation. Key areas of exploration include the determinants of voter knowledge, the impact of media and information environments, demographic variations, and the relationship between voter knowledge, polarization, and political participation. Students will investigate critical questions, such as: How do changes in media consumption and social media usage influence voter knowledge and misinformation? What role do education, socioeconomic status, and geography play in shaping voter awareness? How does voter knowledge correlate with political efficacy, voter turnout, and democratic satisfaction? The project culminates in a policy memo with actionable recommendations for improving voter education or addressing misinformation. Students will target a specific audience, such as a school district or civic organization, and propose clear, evidence-based strategies supported by research.
Students are introduced to the concept of voter knowledge and explore foundational theories from political science and behavioral research, identifying core factors that shape how and what voters know.
Students investigate the influence of media, misinformation, and digital environments on voter understanding by analyzing scholarly sources and beginning their literature review.
Students examine how demographic factors like education, income, and geography shape voter knowledge and participation, synthesizing insights to refine their research focus.
Students draft a policy memo targeted at a real-world audience, using research to develop actionable strategies for improving voter education or countering misinformation.
Students finalize and present their policy memos, sharing evidence-based recommendations to strengthen democratic participation through informed civic engagement.
Nova Scholar Project Pods are structured programs consisting of six sessions. In each session, small groups of 2 to 6 students collaborate under the guidance of an expert mentor. Each session lasts about an hour and includes a combination of lectures and group discussions centered on a specific subject. The ultimate goal is to create an engaging and meaningful final project.
Nova Scholar stands out as one of the most impactful academic and extracurricular programs due to our:
1. Exceptional Mentors: Our mentors are current students or alumni from top-tier universities such as Harvard, Stanford, Yale, Princeton, and MIT. Their firsthand experience and academic excellence offer students top-quality guidance.
2. Results-Oriented Approach: We emphasize meaningful outcomes—students develop real-world, high-impact portfolio projects. We also provide support for publishing work, submitting apps, and entering prestigious competitions like research fairs and the Congressional App Challenge.
3. Highly Personalized Learning: We recognize that every student is different. Even in group settings, our instructors tailor examples and adapt the curriculum to meet individual needs. At our core, we are passionate educators committed to bringing out each student’s best—making learning both valuable and enjoyable.
Nova Scholar blends expert mentorship, interactive learning, and access to real-world opportunities such as publications and competitions, and patent applications, empowering students to build strong academic portfolios and practical skills.
Yes, you can participate even if you’re not in middle school. However, keep in mind that the Project Pods are designed with a middle school audience in mind. If you're looking for a more advanced challenge and already have some background knowledge, we suggest exploring the Research or Nova Patent tracks. These are better suited for high school students as they offer in-depth exploration and create strong, application-ready final products—especially if you already have a clear academic interest.
All Nova programs are conducted online, allowing students to participate from anywhere in the world.
Each program includes one hour-long session per week. In addition, students should plan for 1–2 hours of independent work outside of class. The total time may vary depending on that week's specific assignments and expectations.
If a student misses a session, they can access all course materials and Zoom recordings to stay on track. It’s up to the student to review what was missed and complete any assignments independently.
Although sessions are interactive, most students complete their own written project. Some pods include group presentations, allowing for peer collaboration while still emphasizing individual research and analysis.
Once a student completes the enrollment process on the individual Pod page, they will receive a confirmation email. Seven days before the first session, students will receive calendar invitations and an email with a reminder of Pod expectations. Students are then ready to get started!
By enrolling, students acknowledge the scheduled timing of Pod sessions. Session recordings are available after each session, but missed sessions are non-refundable. Are refund policies consist of the following:
1. If you have paid but the first session hasn’t taken place yet: → You are eligible for a full refund (up to 100%).
2. If you withdraw partway through the program: → You may receive a refund for any sessions that have not yet occurred.
We kindly ask that you notify Nova Scholar as early as possible if you can no longer attend, so we may offer your spot to another student.