Upon completion of the course, students will be able to
Knowledge
• demonstrate a broad 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 as they are described in national policy and international literature.
• formulate a general understanding of the history, traditions, values, and characteristics of democracy in relation to the international field of education
• identify various international agreements, debates and developments in the field of democracy and education
• reflect on democratic issues related to current events in society and politics
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
• compare the function, purpose, and history of diverse democratic systems related to education across national boundaries
General skills
• demonstrate awareness of diverse cultural values and beliefs, and approach these differences in accordance with the ethical standards of educational professionals
• exchange ideas, knowledge and experiences with others in a manner that makes use of the approaches and principles of democracy
• work independently and together with others to achieve enhanced understanding of the process of participation and citizenship for educational opportunities
• use knowledge of international research and comparative approaches to gain insight that can lead to improved educational practices
• keep themselves updated regarding new research, theories, and philosophies within the field of democracy and education
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, 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.
1 semester
15
Autumn
Kristiansand
Faculty of Humanities and Education