Module 0
What's it all about
start now
Welcome to the coACTION Project!
The Power of Democracy in Primary Schools
Laying the Foundation for an Engaged Future
Imagine a school where every voice is heard, where students feel a sense of belonging and ownership, and where learning extends beyond textbooks to encompass active participation in shaping their environment.
+ INFO
Your Four-Step Approach
Integrating democratic practices in primary schools offers a wealth of benefits:
Participating in democratic processes helps children develop empathy, respect for diverse perspectives, and an understanding of fairness and justice. Learning to listen to others, even when they hold different views, and understanding the importance of majority rule while protecting minority rights are fundamental aspects of social-emotional learning.
By giving children opportunities to participate in decision-making processes – even in small ways – we empower them to see themselves as active agents in their communities. They learn that their opinions matter and that they can influence the world around them. This fosters a sense of agency and responsibility, crucial for future civic engagement.
Democratic environments naturally cultivate vital skills such as critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and conflict resolution. When students engage in discussions, express their viewpoints respectfully, and work together to find solutions, they are honing skills that are essential not only for democratic participation but also for success in all aspects of life.
When students have a say in their learning environment, they often become more engaged and motivated. Feeling ownership over their learning can lead to greater curiosity, a deeper understanding of concepts, and a more positive attitude towards school.
Empowering Young Citizens
Fostering Social-Emotional Growth
Enhancing Learning and Engagement
Developing Essential Life Skills
By embracing democratic principles in primary schools, we are not just preparing students for future elections; we are nurturing thoughtful, responsible, and engaged individuals who are equipped to contribute positively to their communities and the wider world.
Embracing the Whole School Approach
A vibrant and truly democratic school culture doesn't emerge in isolation. Instead, it flourishes when all members of the school community – from dedicated school leaders and passionate teachers to engaged learners and supportive parents – actively participate in shaping the daily life of the school.
Embracing the Whole School Approach
When every stakeholder feels a sense of ownership and responsibility for the students' learning journey, the impact is profound.
School leaders create a vision for a democratic school and make sure everyone has a chance to participate.
By being actively involved, learners in turn, develop crucial skills in collaboration, critical thinking, and responsible citizenship.
Learners Learn and Grow
Leaders Set the Stage
Teachers support learners in taking responsibility for their own learning success and create spaces for their voices to be heard: they enable them to help organize lessons and participate in shaping everyday school life.
When parents are engaged partners, their support further strengthens the school's democratic ethos and contributes to a more holistic and enriching educational experience for every child.
Teachers Empower Learners
Parents as partners
Embracing the Whole School Approach
When the whole school community works together, it creates a powerful ecosystem where students feel supported, motivated, and empowered to take charge of their learning, leading to both academic success and personal growth.It's a win-win for everyone involved!
Working Together – Making a Difference
By weaving democratic practices into the very fabric of the school through this collaborative approach, we lay a strong foundation for empowering our young learners and cultivating future democratic citizens.
Building a Strong Fundation
Your path to a more democratic school
PLAN
Year of Democracy
The "Year of Democracy" provides a clear overview of your school's journey to democratic empowerment. Think of it as a continuous improvement process, where each step informs the next, leading to sustainable and meaningful change
DO
ACT
CHECK
Four Phases to Democratic Empowerment
Your journey is structured into four phases, guiding you step-by-step toward a more democratic school culture. Each phase is a building block, creating a solid foundation for lasting change.
The 6 Milestones: Guiding Your Progress
To help you navigate this journey, we have defined six key milestones that mark your progress and celebrate your achievements. Think of these milestones as checkpoints that help you evaluate your progress and motivate you to continue forward. They are carefully placed within the four phases of the project to ensure you build a strong foundation for a democratic school culture.
From Vision to Reality: The 24 Steps
While the journey is broken down into four phases and six milestones, the core of the program lies in 24 practical process steps.
These steps are designed to be flexible and adaptable to your specific school context. They provide a clear roadmap, ensuring that you and your team are always moving forward with purpose.
The Six Modules: Your Toolkit for Success
To support you on your journey through the Year of Democracy, our programme is made up of six comprehensive modules.
Each module is designed to provide you with the essential knowledge, strategies, and practical tools you need at every step on your way.
You'll find a wealth of resources within these modules, including templates, checklists, and best-practice examples to make your work easier and more effective.
Process Initiation & Team formation
Module 1: "Let´s get started"
Module 2: "How to check your democracy level"
Baseline Assesment & Implementation Planning
Impact Analysis & Future Planning
Module 3: "Let´s get real"
Implementation & Ongoing Development
Module 4: "SMART Democracy Targets"
Module 5: "Boost your democracy"
Module 5: "Boost your democracy"
Tools for Democratic Empowerment
Let us now introduce you to the core tools of the coACTION project, our "Democratic Empowerment Platform," designed to help your elementary school foster a more democratic environment and ensure the active participation of all members of the school community.
coACTION Sensor
Were do we stand?
coACTION Treasury
What can we do?
coACTION Diary
How do we proceed?
+ INFO
Tools for Democratic Empowerment
In addition to three major tools, the following items can also be found on the platform:
Democracy- how?
An Eye on Democracy
Democracy- why?
In order to achieve the sustainable implementation of democratic measures, they need to be integrated into School Quality Management. You can find all the details in this module.
The theoretical framework on which the coACTION project is based can be found in this module: from Glasser's 5 Basic Needs to Arnstein's Participation Ladder to the EU's Competences for democratic culture.
The coACTION team accompanies you throughout the Year of Democracy and supports you on your journey towards a more democratic school.
All technical information and details on how to use the tools can be found in the respective tutorials (Sensor, Treasury, Diary).
Read this module to find out why the Whole School Approach is so important for strengthening democracy in our schools.
An Eye on Democracy
Democratic School Culture
Whole School Approach
Coaching Support
Technical Tutorials
These information modules will help you to delve deeper into the individual aspects, gain a little theoretical background and get even more value out of this course.
Navigating the Process: How to Make the Most of the coACTION Project
The "Year of Democracy" is more than just a training programme - it's a hands-on journey to transform your school's culture. To help you succeed, we've developed a flexible and supportive framework. The online training modules provide the foundation, but your active engagement is what will truly drive change. To make the most of this process, keep these four key principles in mind.
Your Four-Step Approach
Your journey is a cycle of learning, doing, and reflecting. Follow these steps to maximize your impact:
Democratic change is a continuous improvement process. Regularly reflect on your progress, celebrate small wins, and don't be afraid to adjust your course. Use the reflection questions and feedback loops provided to refine your approach and ensure sustainable change.
Each of the six modules provides you with the knowledge, tools, and best practices you need for the current phase of your project. Watch the videos, read the materials, and discuss the content with your team.
Your coach is your personal guide and sparring partner. Don't hesitate to reach out for support, clarification, or to discuss challenges. Schedule regular meetings with your coach and use their expertise to address your specific school context.
The training is designed for action. The tools and 24 process steps are your roadmap for turning theory into practice. Actively apply the tools and methods introduced in each module within your school environment.
Learn from the Modules
Engage with Your Coach
Implement the Steps & Tools
Reflect & Adjust:
The Journey Begins Now
The first step is often the most important, and with this module, you have taken it. You are now equipped with the big picture and a clear understanding of the process ahead. We are looking forward to being part of your "Year of Democracy" and seeing the impact you will create.Thank you for your commitment to fostering a more democratic school culture.
Let´s get started
coACTION Diary
The coACTION Diary serves as your school's dedicated space to chronicle its unique path towards a more democratic and inclusive environment. From the initial decision to embark on this journey to the achievement of your annual democracy goals, this tool will help you track your progress, reflect on your experiences, and share insights with your school community.
coACTION Treasury
The coACTION Treasury contains descriptions and videos on a colourful variety of relevant measures, activities and procedures that support democratic steps in schools.
Choose from a variety of options to find exactly the right approach for your school!
This is the power of bringing democratic principles into primary education. It's not just about learning about democracy; it's about living it within the school walls, fostering essential skills and attitudes that will benefit children throughout their lives and contribute to a more just and quitable society.
School as "Place to Live"
An African proverb says: It takes a whole village to educate a child! We firmly believe that it takes the entire school community to transform a school from a place of learning into a place to wellbeing, a place to live and a place for personal development.
Why do we need more democracy in schools?
What characterises a democracy? What are the distinguishing features of a functioning democracy? What rights and what duties does this entail for the individual? Why do we need more democracy - especially in schools? This section provides answers to the questions above and to many others.
This is the power of bringing democratic principles into primary education.
Pilars of democratic education
This project is based on the Reference Framework of Competences for Democratic Culture (RFCDC, CoE 2016) and the special Descriptors of Competences validated for work with children below 10 years of age. Read more about the theoretical basis of our work in this section.
Goals for School Development
This guide, especially developed for primary schools, supports you in implementing new or more democratic measures in the school quality management system. This ensures that the activities taken in the Year of Democracy are not a one-time action but they are sustainably integrated into everyday school life.
coACTION Sensor
The coACTION Sensor is a collection of four questionnaires for the individual members of the school community: (school management, teachers, pupils and parents. It assesses the strengths and weaknesses of democratic behaviour at the school and is carried out at the beginning and end of the school year (project periode).
Pilars of democratic education
This project is based on the Reference Framework of Competences for Democratic Culture (RFCDC, CoE 2016) and the special Descriptors of Competences validated for work with children below 10 years of age. Read more about the theoretical basis of our work in this section.
Why do we need more democracy in schools?
What characterises a democracy? What are the distinguishing features of a functioning democracy? What rights and what duties does this entail for the individual? Why do we need more democracy - especially in schools? This section provides answers to the questions above and to many others.
School as "Place to Live"
An African proverb says: It takes a whole village to educate a child! We firmly believe that it takes the entire school community to transform a school from a place of learning into a place to wellbeing, a place to live and a place for personal development.
Pilars of democratic education
This project is based on the Reference Framework of Competences for Democratic Culture (RFCDC, CoE 2016) and the special Descriptors of Competences validated for work with children below 10 years of age. Read more about the theoretical basis of our work in this section.
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Transcript
Module 0
What's it all about
start now
Welcome to the coACTION Project!
The Power of Democracy in Primary Schools
Laying the Foundation for an Engaged Future
Imagine a school where every voice is heard, where students feel a sense of belonging and ownership, and where learning extends beyond textbooks to encompass active participation in shaping their environment.
+ INFO
Your Four-Step Approach
Integrating democratic practices in primary schools offers a wealth of benefits:
Participating in democratic processes helps children develop empathy, respect for diverse perspectives, and an understanding of fairness and justice. Learning to listen to others, even when they hold different views, and understanding the importance of majority rule while protecting minority rights are fundamental aspects of social-emotional learning.
By giving children opportunities to participate in decision-making processes – even in small ways – we empower them to see themselves as active agents in their communities. They learn that their opinions matter and that they can influence the world around them. This fosters a sense of agency and responsibility, crucial for future civic engagement.
Democratic environments naturally cultivate vital skills such as critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and conflict resolution. When students engage in discussions, express their viewpoints respectfully, and work together to find solutions, they are honing skills that are essential not only for democratic participation but also for success in all aspects of life.
When students have a say in their learning environment, they often become more engaged and motivated. Feeling ownership over their learning can lead to greater curiosity, a deeper understanding of concepts, and a more positive attitude towards school.
Empowering Young Citizens
Fostering Social-Emotional Growth
Enhancing Learning and Engagement
Developing Essential Life Skills
By embracing democratic principles in primary schools, we are not just preparing students for future elections; we are nurturing thoughtful, responsible, and engaged individuals who are equipped to contribute positively to their communities and the wider world.
Embracing the Whole School Approach
A vibrant and truly democratic school culture doesn't emerge in isolation. Instead, it flourishes when all members of the school community – from dedicated school leaders and passionate teachers to engaged learners and supportive parents – actively participate in shaping the daily life of the school.
Embracing the Whole School Approach
When every stakeholder feels a sense of ownership and responsibility for the students' learning journey, the impact is profound.
School leaders create a vision for a democratic school and make sure everyone has a chance to participate.
By being actively involved, learners in turn, develop crucial skills in collaboration, critical thinking, and responsible citizenship.
Learners Learn and Grow
Leaders Set the Stage
Teachers support learners in taking responsibility for their own learning success and create spaces for their voices to be heard: they enable them to help organize lessons and participate in shaping everyday school life.
When parents are engaged partners, their support further strengthens the school's democratic ethos and contributes to a more holistic and enriching educational experience for every child.
Teachers Empower Learners
Parents as partners
Embracing the Whole School Approach
When the whole school community works together, it creates a powerful ecosystem where students feel supported, motivated, and empowered to take charge of their learning, leading to both academic success and personal growth.It's a win-win for everyone involved!
Working Together – Making a Difference
By weaving democratic practices into the very fabric of the school through this collaborative approach, we lay a strong foundation for empowering our young learners and cultivating future democratic citizens.
Building a Strong Fundation
Your path to a more democratic school
PLAN
Year of Democracy
The "Year of Democracy" provides a clear overview of your school's journey to democratic empowerment. Think of it as a continuous improvement process, where each step informs the next, leading to sustainable and meaningful change
DO
ACT
CHECK
Four Phases to Democratic Empowerment
Your journey is structured into four phases, guiding you step-by-step toward a more democratic school culture. Each phase is a building block, creating a solid foundation for lasting change.
The 6 Milestones: Guiding Your Progress
To help you navigate this journey, we have defined six key milestones that mark your progress and celebrate your achievements. Think of these milestones as checkpoints that help you evaluate your progress and motivate you to continue forward. They are carefully placed within the four phases of the project to ensure you build a strong foundation for a democratic school culture.
From Vision to Reality: The 24 Steps
While the journey is broken down into four phases and six milestones, the core of the program lies in 24 practical process steps.
These steps are designed to be flexible and adaptable to your specific school context. They provide a clear roadmap, ensuring that you and your team are always moving forward with purpose.
The Six Modules: Your Toolkit for Success
To support you on your journey through the Year of Democracy, our programme is made up of six comprehensive modules.
Each module is designed to provide you with the essential knowledge, strategies, and practical tools you need at every step on your way.
You'll find a wealth of resources within these modules, including templates, checklists, and best-practice examples to make your work easier and more effective.
Process Initiation & Team formation
Module 1: "Let´s get started"
Module 2: "How to check your democracy level"
Baseline Assesment & Implementation Planning
Impact Analysis & Future Planning
Module 3: "Let´s get real"
Implementation & Ongoing Development
Module 4: "SMART Democracy Targets"
Module 5: "Boost your democracy"
Module 5: "Boost your democracy"
Tools for Democratic Empowerment
Let us now introduce you to the core tools of the coACTION project, our "Democratic Empowerment Platform," designed to help your elementary school foster a more democratic environment and ensure the active participation of all members of the school community.
coACTION Sensor
Were do we stand?
coACTION Treasury
What can we do?
coACTION Diary
How do we proceed?
+ INFO
Tools for Democratic Empowerment
In addition to three major tools, the following items can also be found on the platform:
Democracy- how?
An Eye on Democracy
Democracy- why?
In order to achieve the sustainable implementation of democratic measures, they need to be integrated into School Quality Management. You can find all the details in this module.
The theoretical framework on which the coACTION project is based can be found in this module: from Glasser's 5 Basic Needs to Arnstein's Participation Ladder to the EU's Competences for democratic culture.
The coACTION team accompanies you throughout the Year of Democracy and supports you on your journey towards a more democratic school.
All technical information and details on how to use the tools can be found in the respective tutorials (Sensor, Treasury, Diary).
Read this module to find out why the Whole School Approach is so important for strengthening democracy in our schools.
An Eye on Democracy
Democratic School Culture
Whole School Approach
Coaching Support
Technical Tutorials
These information modules will help you to delve deeper into the individual aspects, gain a little theoretical background and get even more value out of this course.
Navigating the Process: How to Make the Most of the coACTION Project
The "Year of Democracy" is more than just a training programme - it's a hands-on journey to transform your school's culture. To help you succeed, we've developed a flexible and supportive framework. The online training modules provide the foundation, but your active engagement is what will truly drive change. To make the most of this process, keep these four key principles in mind.
Your Four-Step Approach
Your journey is a cycle of learning, doing, and reflecting. Follow these steps to maximize your impact:
Democratic change is a continuous improvement process. Regularly reflect on your progress, celebrate small wins, and don't be afraid to adjust your course. Use the reflection questions and feedback loops provided to refine your approach and ensure sustainable change.
Each of the six modules provides you with the knowledge, tools, and best practices you need for the current phase of your project. Watch the videos, read the materials, and discuss the content with your team.
Your coach is your personal guide and sparring partner. Don't hesitate to reach out for support, clarification, or to discuss challenges. Schedule regular meetings with your coach and use their expertise to address your specific school context.
The training is designed for action. The tools and 24 process steps are your roadmap for turning theory into practice. Actively apply the tools and methods introduced in each module within your school environment.
Learn from the Modules
Engage with Your Coach
Implement the Steps & Tools
Reflect & Adjust:
The Journey Begins Now
The first step is often the most important, and with this module, you have taken it. You are now equipped with the big picture and a clear understanding of the process ahead. We are looking forward to being part of your "Year of Democracy" and seeing the impact you will create.Thank you for your commitment to fostering a more democratic school culture.
Let´s get started
coACTION Diary
The coACTION Diary serves as your school's dedicated space to chronicle its unique path towards a more democratic and inclusive environment. From the initial decision to embark on this journey to the achievement of your annual democracy goals, this tool will help you track your progress, reflect on your experiences, and share insights with your school community.
coACTION Treasury
The coACTION Treasury contains descriptions and videos on a colourful variety of relevant measures, activities and procedures that support democratic steps in schools.
Choose from a variety of options to find exactly the right approach for your school!
This is the power of bringing democratic principles into primary education. It's not just about learning about democracy; it's about living it within the school walls, fostering essential skills and attitudes that will benefit children throughout their lives and contribute to a more just and quitable society.
School as "Place to Live"
An African proverb says: It takes a whole village to educate a child! We firmly believe that it takes the entire school community to transform a school from a place of learning into a place to wellbeing, a place to live and a place for personal development.
Why do we need more democracy in schools?
What characterises a democracy? What are the distinguishing features of a functioning democracy? What rights and what duties does this entail for the individual? Why do we need more democracy - especially in schools? This section provides answers to the questions above and to many others.
This is the power of bringing democratic principles into primary education.
Pilars of democratic education
This project is based on the Reference Framework of Competences for Democratic Culture (RFCDC, CoE 2016) and the special Descriptors of Competences validated for work with children below 10 years of age. Read more about the theoretical basis of our work in this section.
Goals for School Development
This guide, especially developed for primary schools, supports you in implementing new or more democratic measures in the school quality management system. This ensures that the activities taken in the Year of Democracy are not a one-time action but they are sustainably integrated into everyday school life.
coACTION Sensor
The coACTION Sensor is a collection of four questionnaires for the individual members of the school community: (school management, teachers, pupils and parents. It assesses the strengths and weaknesses of democratic behaviour at the school and is carried out at the beginning and end of the school year (project periode).
Pilars of democratic education
This project is based on the Reference Framework of Competences for Democratic Culture (RFCDC, CoE 2016) and the special Descriptors of Competences validated for work with children below 10 years of age. Read more about the theoretical basis of our work in this section.
Why do we need more democracy in schools?
What characterises a democracy? What are the distinguishing features of a functioning democracy? What rights and what duties does this entail for the individual? Why do we need more democracy - especially in schools? This section provides answers to the questions above and to many others.
School as "Place to Live"
An African proverb says: It takes a whole village to educate a child! We firmly believe that it takes the entire school community to transform a school from a place of learning into a place to wellbeing, a place to live and a place for personal development.
Pilars of democratic education
This project is based on the Reference Framework of Competences for Democratic Culture (RFCDC, CoE 2016) and the special Descriptors of Competences validated for work with children below 10 years of age. Read more about the theoretical basis of our work in this section.