Abstract

This study examines the relationship between education, media and voting behaviour with special focus on elementary education. The quantitative research method of survey (n=1704) was applied to gather data using multi-stage cluster sampling technique from the registered voters in all 10 divisions of Punjab province. Factor analysis and logistic regression were performed for data analysis. The study results revealed that there was a significant association between education and voting behaviour as χ2 (8) = 54.631, p < .0005. Similarly, the strength of association, the value of Cramer's V = 0.191 was also significant. Moreover, the masters degree or higher education respondents were more likely to cast vote with a proportion of 88.1% as compared to the voters having elementary and secondary education. Furthermore, the voters having elementary education were influenced more from their interpersonal communication as compared to the voters having higher education. The study recommends that the government must focus on education in general and the elementary education in particular for establishing true democratic norms in the country. It is recommended that awareness on democracy and political participation especially importance of vote casting should be included in the curricula of elementary education.  

Keywords: Voters Education, Democracy, Pakistan General Elections 2013, Punjab, voting behaviour, Elementary Education, Communication Channels