Enriching Education: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. - Student Survey

 Brainly, the world's largest online learning platform, recently conducted a survey of almost 900 U.S. middle and high school students to better understand what they know (and don’t know) about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., his life, and his legacy. 

 

It turns out, the answer is not much. 

 

According to the data, 70% of U.S. students shared they believe understanding historical context is important to solving modern social issues. 

 

However, the vast majority incorrectly identified Dr. King's accomplishments or were simply not aware of some of the most important things he did to contribute to America’s Civil Rights Movement. 

 

For instance:

• About 70% of U.S. students said that he did not lead the Montgomery Bus boycott.
• Roughly 62% didn't know he organized the famous "March on Washington;" and astonishingly, 14% said he didn't give the famous "I Have a Dream Speech."
• ONLY 15% knew he drafted legislation to desegregate the U.S. 
• Almost 72% didn’t know he wrote the “Letter from Birmingham Jail.” 

 

Brainly's mission is to democratize education and ensure that all students have equal access to the resources they need to be academically successful. This is particularly important ahead of MLK Jr. Day as the country and the world reflects on the major impact Dr. King had on the U.S. and the globe, and how his sacrifice has left an indelible impression on the cause for equality.