Today,
I would like to reflect my thoughts on an approach Education for Sustainable
Development and Global Citizenship (ESDGC). The aim of this approach is to
develop our understanding and knowledge about aspects of our everyday life and
on a global scale. The ESDGC project is supported by Welsh Government policy
and it’s integrated into curriculum and management of schools. The ESDGC
also cooperates and works with local, national and international organisations
all over the world. It is a very powerful project that enables people to
develop an understanding about the world and the issues related to environment,
humanity and planet as a whole. ESDGC is divided into seven themes which are:
wealth and poverty, health, natural environment, climate change, identity and
culture, choices and decisions, consumption and waste (DCELLS, 2008).
Personally, I didn’t have a chance to experience this approach in school. There are many schools, such as Dyffryn School in
Port Talbot, that actively takes a part in this project. It is beneficial for all
learners, teachers and those around them. By clearer aims and structure, it
helps to understand and gain new experiences and knowledge. More importantly,
it opens and broadens minds about the issues related to the themes mentioned
above. Children learn about everything that happens around them, in their
community and country but also learn about other countries. This approach, not
only expands our knowledge but also changes the way we live and experience our
day to day activities. Children share their experiences with peers, family and
friends. In this form, the inquiry learning is expanding to a wider audience
making it interesting and powerful. By learning about other cultures and
communities, we respect others and appreciate their values and beliefs. This
form of education brings communities closer and raises awareness of the issues
that relates to each person who lives on this planet.
I grew up living and learning in Poland. The issues discussed in
this approach are as important here as they are in Poland. By learning about this
approach, it proves how important is to celebrate cultural, environmental
and linguistic diversity, foster positive attitudes towards others who are
different to us. More importantly, it involves everybody to care for our future and our planet no matter where you
are from. Through my journey to becoming a teacher, reflecting and exploring
new ways of educating children in the 21st century it is very
inspirational and fascinating.
Reference
DCELLS. (2008) Education
for Sustainable Development and Global Citizenship: A Common Understanding for
Schools. Welsh Assembly Government
No comments:
Post a Comment