Table of contents

The course is connected to the following study programs

Teaching language

All teaching will be in English. Students may write their semester papers and their exam in English or Norwegian.

Recommended previous knowledge

One year of a bachelor’s degree in education or related fields within humanities and social sciences or two years of general teacher education. Good language skills

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of the course, students will be able to

Knowledge

• demonstrate knowledge of central themes, theories, and approaches within the fields of democracy and education

• describe current issues and challenges related to democracy in a global perspective

• describe the central principles and features of democracy

• formulate a general understanding of the history, traditions, values, and characteristics of democracy in relation to the international field of education

• identify developments in the field of democracy and education

Skills

• apply the principles of democracy to the analysis of educational practices and policies from an international perspective

• apply findings from research within the fields of democracy and education to practical and theoretical challenges

• identify and critically analyse information relating to history, ethics, language, media, and education in the light of democratic values

General skills

• demonstrate awareness of diverse cultural values and beliefs, and approach these differences in accordance with the ethical standards of educational professionals

• work independently and together with others to achieved enhanced understanding of the process of participation and citizenship for educational opportunities

• understand and place new research, theories, and philosophies within the field of democracy and education

Contents

The course is ideal for students who are interested in an international perspective on democracy and education. It provides knowledge about democratic issues and global trends related to languages, literature, history, culture, philosophy, ethics, religion, media, and education. Furthermore, the course will give the students comparative analytical skills and broaden their understanding of democracy and other cultures.

The course revolves around how democracy is related to educational issues in societies with an emphasis on the following areas: (1) Democracy and education - a historical introduction, (2) Democracy in educational systems, (2) Role of globalization, citizenship, migration and societal values for education and citizenship and (3) Human rights, diversity, "freedom of speech" and media, (4) Culture, literature, language and participation.

Teaching and learning methods

Teaching and learning methods will involve a combination of lectures, videos, self-study, an excursion, and group work. Students’ active participation in instruction and prioritising additional time spent on self-study and preparing for lessons is required.

Examination requirements

Students will submit one written term paper throughout the course. The term paper must be passed before taking the exam. 80 % compulsory attendance to lectures is required. For further information, please consult the students` learning platform Canvas as the semester starts.

Examinations

Individual oral exam. Graded assessment.

Student evaluation

The person responsible for the course decides, in cooperations with students representative, the form of student evaluation and whether the course is to have a midway or end course evaluation in accordance with the quality system for education, chapter 4.1.

Offered as a free-standing course

Yes, if there are places available

Admission Requirement if given as a free-standing course

General university admissions certification

Admission for external candidates

No

Reduction of Credits

This course’s contents overlap with the following courses. A reduction of credits will occur if one of these courses is taken in addition:

Course Reduction of Credits
PED243 – Values and Democracy in Education, PED244 – Perspectives in Democracy and Human Rights Education and PED432 – Democracy and Education. 3
Last updated from FS (Felles studentsystem) Oct. 15, 2026 7:53:29 AM