Acting as Citizens
Greece is ranked very low in European & international comparative studies on Active Citizenship (A.C.). Despite A.C. being part of school curricula for many years, its impact is not reflected in citizens’ attitudes. Behaviors & attitudes cannot be taught as a school subject with traditional teaching techniques.
The educational program “Acting as a Citizen” addresses the need for a holistic pedagogical intervention covering all aspects of AC, with the introduction of an appropriate methodology for forming life attitudes. It aims at shaping 5-18year-old students as active citizens. It offers an appropriate context for implementation in schools & enables the connection & engagement with the family, the community & the world. Educational resources in the form of manuals for teachers & family are being created.
The project is implemented in 48 Greek schools, with participating teachers being trained & supported live & remotely during a school year for the implementation of the program with their students. The program’s approach is hands-on, student-centered, inquiry-based & collaborative, ignited by the student’s own experience & surroundings. The students invite their families, social partners, competent authorities, civil society organizations & the media to take part in their activities. 3,700 students & 192 teachers are being trained to inform, raise awareness & call to action another 4,800 students, 336 teachers & 1,000 parents. 24 highly qualified teachers are trained to act as counselors, trainers & facilitators to the teachers. The Lambrakis Foundation has the responsibility of the development, coordination & implementation of the program and the A.C. Laskaridis Charitable Foundation is responsible for the dissemination of its results.
