5 stages towards

participative and experiential learning

From Citizenship Education: the global dimension Guidance for Key Stages 3 and 4 page 17

1 Pupils become aware

Teachers need to provide opportunities for pupils to identify issues that interest them, for example encouraging pupils to read the daily newspapers, asking them questions about items in the news, pointing out TV programmes that may be of interest, organising short activities that raise issues about what influences them. Pupils need to be given a safe and secure environment to discuss issues that concern them.

2 Pupils become informed

Pupils need to develop the skills to research information for themselves, using libraries and the internet, to seek explanations as to why things are as they are and the range of opinions that exist. Emotions may be experienced ranging from sadness, to anger and frustration or elation at learning about successes. Becoming aware of issues does not in itself change anything.

3 Pupils develop their understanding

Ways need to be found that will enable pupils to engage with someone who lives in a different environment or culture, to explore issues with their peers, to address real issues and to tackle and question their own attitudes.

4 Pupils develop their own views and opinions

Pupils can develop the skills to recognise bias and to support their views with evidence. Their opinions need to be informed and considered and they need the confidence to take a stand once they have formed an opinion.

5 Pupils take action

Taking action can be a response to positive developments as well as to negative situations. Pupils need to be given the knowledge and skills that will enable them to take appropriate action. Who needs to know? Who can persuade the people they want to influence? Action can be turning off a tap while cleaning teeth, contacting the local press, putting on a performance, writing to an MP or local councillor, exploring the policy and practice in your own school, making decisions about whether to buy certain products and telling others why.