Children as citizens : education for participation

This text takes a critical look at the debate on education for citizenship.

It examines the views of children and practising teachers on the nature of citizenship, global responsibility and social justice and human rights, as well as the system itself.

The current teaching of the subject in Europe and Australia as well as in Britain is investigated to highlight good practice, as is the effect of the Union on European member states.

In their exploration of children's attitudes to citizenship, and why it might be that initially enthusiastic children grow into cynical adolescents, the authors conclude that, while the current framework for the teaching and learning of citizenship within a school setting provides opportunities for developing children's eagerness to participate, these opportunities are often not realized.