Research: Embedding a Democratic Culture in Teacher Education
Providing primary school teachers with the support to embed democratic values into the classroom.
About the research project
Research Summary
- August 2020 to November 2021
This project addresses concerns that democracy across Europe is being challenged by factors such as:
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growing inequalities
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a rise of xenophobic and racist attitudes
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increasing distribution of fake news hate speech on social media
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high levels of frustration and alienation particularly among marginalised groups and young people
The project aims to better equip primary school teachers across Europe to implement competencies for democratic culture (CDC).
CDC is a framework designed by the Council of Europe to promote democratic values, attitudes, skills, knowledgeand critical understanding in primary and secondary schools and universities.
Quote
Teachers have a unique opportunity and responsibility to mirror democratic principles and help new generations to embrace democratic ways of life. We want to give them the tools to do that.
Research outputs
Research methods
Teachers, student teachers and teacher educators in Manchester participated in online workshops where they gained expertise from international experts.
They contributed their experiences and expertise - together with those of teachers in Portugal and Spain - to inform the development of practical resources.
The project team then identified any enabling factors and challenges, informing them of policy recommendations.
Research outputs
As a result of the project, a policy report has been produced, examining the level of integration of CDC in initial primary teacher education policy and practice in the countries of partner institutions. The report also provides recommendations to embed CDC in initial primary education programmes.
You can read and download the policy report:
- Embedding a Democratic Culture Dimension in Teacher Education Programmes: Policy Report from England
The project has also facilitated the development of a range of practical resources, such as the ‘Promoting Democracy in the Classroom: A Practical Guide for Teachers’ Massive Open Online Course (MOOC).
Teaching resources - for teachers, student teachers, teacher educators, and policymakers - have also been produced. You can read and download the resource document in English, Portuguese and Spanish:
Research team
Research team
Project partners
Project partners
Funded by
Contact us
If you have any questions about the project, please email Dr Edda Sant.
Funder statement
This web page was produced with the financial support of the European Union and the Council of Europe. The views expressed herein can in no way be taken to reflect the official opinion of either party.