Transcript Slide 1

MINISTRY OF EDUCATION OF
TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO
DEMOCRATIC CITIZENSHIP
Presented by Michael H Alleyne PhD – Coordinator – Peace Promotion Programme
Basic operating elements of a philosophy of
Education for Democracy
1. Imparting of knowledge about principles of
Democracy. (Knowledge)
2. Method of imparting that knowledge. (Methodology)
3. Creating a democratic environment for learning by
living. (Environment)
Main components of the work of the Ministry
of Education that are directed to or contribute
to promoting Democratic Citizenship.
1.
The teaching of Social Studies and Civics in primary and
secondary school curriculum – highlighting the principles of
democracy as enshrined in the Constitution, the fundamentals
and practice of Democratic Governance.
2. The teaching of History – local, regional and international – the
road to the achievement of Independence and Democratic
Citizenship.
3. School based management and Decentralization – more
decision making power to principals and more authorities being
moved from Central Headquarters to component districts.
4. Projects/Activities in the Peace
Promotion Programme.
a. Training in Peer Mediation/Conflict Resolution and Peer
Counselling
b. Training for students in promoting respect.
c. Training in Controlling anger and stress/maintaining peace
for Teachers.
d. Training in making Right Choices – Problem Solving and
Positive Behaviour and Attitudes among students. (UN
award project
e. Training of Principals and Teachers in School & Classroom
management in creating a democratic environment and
Positive Discipline.
f. Homework centres to assist disadvantaged children in
improving performance in school work and personal
development.
g. Parenting education – by training Trainers for community
projects to assist parents in rearing their children by creating
a democratic environment in homes.
h. Student Councils – promoting the establishment of
Students Councils to provide opportunities for students to
participate in the management of the schools in a
democratic environment.
i. Functioning of clubs/student uniformed groups – Cadets,
Scouts, Girl guides, Police Clubs, Junior Achievement etc
j. Research and Evaluation
1) Each project/activity evaluated
2) Impact evaluation in progress
3) Two studies completed by Professor Ramesh Deosaran
4) Youth Survey completed in collaboration with Ministry of
National Security
5 School Discipline Initiative – in a
Joint Action Plan with the
Ministry of National Security.
a. Mentoring project – to guide and encourage students
In obeying laws, in disciplined behaviour.
b. School Safety Officers – to assist principals in
Maintaining a safe and peaceful environment in
Schools.
c. Research –
1) Conducting surveys in selected schools to assess
situation and evaluate progress in implementing
discipline promotion activities.
2) Baseline study by Department of Educational
Research
3) Assessment after two years being prepared
6.
IDB Loan Proposal –Citizen Security
with the Ministry of National Security – with
three (3) components.
1. Promoting Democratic Citizenships in schools.
2. Enhancing physical security in schools.
3. The use of television and related technology in Schools to
strengthen Peace Promotion projects especially in
parent education.
7. Morals and Values Education
Special training and course in cultivating high morals and values
in students including loyalty, patriotism, tolerance, respect for
human rights.
8. Health and Family Life Education
Special training to promote responsible behaviour among
students in interpersonal relations and sexual conduct.
9. Literacy programme – Adult Education – to
eradicate illiteracy being the most serious threat to Democracy.
The End
Thank you for your attention