'War in the classroom' – Why conflict studies should be central to every citizenship programme.
Schools | 13th August 2008
If through citizenship education our aim is to teach young people about the world around them and help them better understand the global community in which they live then it is essential that we address the issues of conflict.
At any one time there are an estimated 70 situations of current or potential conflict, many of which have a direct impact on the international community. In fact when studying many key global issues such as poverty, displacement and inequality, the root cause too often leads back to war and the devastating effec that it can have on a country's population.
Tackling current events within the classroom allows citizenship leaders to engage students in events that they are already exposed to in the media and will have, most likely, already begun to form opinions about. Providing young people with a safe and supportive enviroment in which they can explore their views and become informed, critical thinkers, ensures that the key concepts of the curriculum are being taught in a way that is relevant and interesting to them.
We at War Child believe that young people care deeply about their peers around the world, particularly when they are suffering with the results of conflict related poverty or are being forced to fight as a child soldier. Teaching about conflict and the ways in which people in the UK can make a difference gives young people in this country an opportunity to become informed and actively participate in a positive solution.
To see the full article in all its glory visit www.teachingcitizenship.org.uk
Caroline Armitage – Schools Programme Manager.
Couldn't agree more with this. With conflicts springing up seemingly everywhere in the world right now it's never been more important to openly and honestly discuss the implications with young people.
Thanks for the resource links on the Teaching Citizenship site.