Lego Stop-Motion Brings Civics to Life for Students

Dan Butler, a political science professor at Washington University (WashU), has created an innovative approach to teaching civics through Lego stop-motion animation. His project, known as “The Poli-sci Brick Guy,” transforms complex political concepts into engaging lessons aimed primarily at high school students. By using popular culture references, Butler makes learning about the U.S. government both accessible and entertaining.

Creative Teaching in a Unique Format

Butler’s journey into stop-motion animation began during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he sought new ways to engage his Sunday school students. He soon recognized that the same technique could be applied to political science education. The professor draws from the AP American Government curriculum, a course that around 400,000 students take annually, to create his videos. Backed by the Frick Initiative, which funds projects that promote civil discourse, Butler’s work aims to make the national curriculum more relatable while emphasizing civic power and responsibility.

“The people I’m trying to reach are swimming in an ocean of information, and sometimes I feel I’m in a small boat,” Butler said. “But I want people to understand they have power, that they matter, and that they can be smart about how they matter.”

In his small studio at WashU, Butler has amassed nearly 1,000 Lego mini-figures, a ring light, and a digital camera. He handles every aspect of video production, from writing scripts and storyboarding to recording voice-overs and editing. His selection of pop culture icons, including characters from Harry Potter and The Avengers, serves to illustrate lessons in a way that resonates with students.

Engaging Content and Future Plans

To date, Butler has completed 88 videos, with 63 of them focusing on core content from the AP Government curriculum and 15 addressing landmark court cases. Additionally, he has introduced a series titled “Know the Now,” which connects course concepts to current events such as tariffs and immigration debates. This series is designed to provide educators with tools to foster discussion and encourage critical thinking in the classroom.

This fall, Butler plans to attend regional and national conferences for secondary social studies teachers. These events will allow him to meet educators who might incorporate his videos into their curricula while also gathering feedback to enhance future content. For Butler, this initiative is more than just an academic project; it is a passion that reflects his commitment to engaging students in meaningful ways.

“Students are a group of people I really want to reach and, because of the course they are taking, it’s a moment when their attention is at our doorstep,” he explained. “I want to open the door and welcome them in.”

Through his Lego stop-motion universe, Butler invites students to interact with government concepts that are fun, memorable, and significant. His innovative teaching method not only helps demystify civics, but also empowers young learners to recognize their role in shaping their communities and the nation.