This resource offers materials, methods and examples on democratic cultures inside and beyond the classroom. It emphasises that democratic culture among learners is an ongoing task combining curricula and disciplines, involving both the learner and the teacher. The units in this resource focus on a variety of competences within the framework of democratic culture; justice, fairness, equality, the rule of law as well as attitudes of respect, empathy and responsibility are the goals of a developed democratic classroom. The unit encourages cooperation skills among learners as well as their critical understanding of languages and communication.  

The resource can thus be used for in-service training of primary school and possibly lower secondary school teachers with some teaching experience. It is not limited to a specific subject but can be used across the curriculum. It is also recommended for democratic culture learning among transdisciplinary teaching professionals.

Click here to access this resource

To cite this resource: Christou, C. (2017, November). Strengthening Education for Democracy (STED) Investigating our democratic culture as teachers and educators. Are we competent enough? [PDF]. Strasbourg: The Pestalozzi Programme, Council of Europe, Training Programme for Education Professionals.