Meet the host of "Simple Civics"

“Simple Civics” is a digital short film series dedicated to answering your questions about U.S. laws and government.

In each episode, Butler University Professor of Political Science Dr. Terri Jett tackles a specific question in just a couple minutes – breaking down the history behind an issue and how it affects us today.

Dr. Jett has a long-standing passion for helping others understand the U.S. government. Learn more about her story, the episode for which she got the biggest response and her favorite programs on WFYI.

What drove you to become an educator, focused on political science and policy?

When I was a little girl spending time with my grandmother, Ella Mae Jett, she would always say, “You look like someone who should have a Ph.D.” I didn’t truly know what she meant, but I understood that my grandmother, as well as my parents and all the members of my extended family, valued education and saw it as the path towards building not just yourself, but your community. Mama Ella, as I fondly called her, planted that seed in me very early by sharing her vision for me, somewhat evenas a matter of fact. I pursued political science because it focuses on the study of power and that is how you getthings done – by empowering a collective group of people to act. In my case, I try to empower young people through my teaching.

What excites you about civics, and getting to teach it in this way?

Everyone should have a full understanding of not only how our government works but why it works the way it does – its failures and successes. It is this knowledge that drives people to participate more intentionally, which includes voting, but also running for political office, serving on juries and recognizing that we all play a part in making sure our government is as representative and beneficial for as many people as possible, not just a select few. I love being a part of the “Simple Civics” series because   it provides just enough solid and practical information to generate more curiosity about our government. Also, I hope that the short lessons are memorable.

Which episode or topic stands out to you in terms of importance or impact?

The episode that I received a lot of response from was the one on the draft, because it was so informative, and also made a lot of people think about where we stand as global citizens today. We must consider what it means to have no choice but to participate in a war in defense of your country, but to also recognize that those on the front lines have been our everyday family members, neighbors and communities who have suffered tremendous losses because of these conflicts. So we have to be absolutely clear on what we are fighting for when those who are in power – who we put in power – make those types of decisions.  

What is a future episode or topic you’d like to produce?

So many people have raised the issue of the electoral college and their desire for it to be eliminated, so I’d like to find a way to both explain and consider what that suggests. Also there are many issues within the Bill of Rights that seriously need to be interrogated, and I feel that a “Simple Civics” lesson will get more people talking about things, such as what does the Second Amendment really mean for us today, or why is the Fourth Amendment so critical right now.

Are there any favorite WFYI programs that you love and would recommend?

If you are a lifelong learner like me, then you love everything about PBS and NPR, because you recognize the careful attention to detail and all the questions that are raised. Some of my favorites include “1A,” “All Things Considered” and “Fresh Air,” and the NPR Political Podcast. And when I’m in my car on the way to work, usually in the morning, I typically catch the “BBC Newshour.” And when I can remember, I love “A Way with Words.” And I learned so much from “Car Talk,” though I still can’t fix my own car, but I know when something is wrong…that’s a start.

"Simple Civics" is made possible in part by AARP Indiana.