Global dimension to the school curriculum
Photo © WEDG
The concept and term ‘global dimension’ was developed by a range of partners to:
- refer to all curriculum subjects, as in, for example, ‘the global dimension to science’
- focus on appreciating the global dimension to local lives
- provide accessible terminology for education policy makers and teachers.
The concept is set out in Developing the Global Dimension in the School Curriculum (DFID, DfES, QCA, DEA, British Council, March 2005) which states the following on page 2:
"Including the global dimension in teaching means that links can be made between local and global issues. It also means that young people are given opportunities to critically examine their own values and attitudes; appreciate the similarities between peoples everywhere, and value diversity; and develop skills that will enable them to combat injustice, prejudice and discrimination. Such knowledge, skills and understanding enable young people to make informed decisions about playing an active role in the global community."
The global dimension is based around eight key concepts which need to be seen as aspects of a whole rather than as stand alone concepts:
- global citizenship
- conflict resolution
- diversity
- human rights
- interdependence
- social justice
- sustainable development
- values and perceptions
The active, participative pedagogy of development education is essential to the global dimension to education.
- Find out more about DEA's work with the school and initial teacher education sector.
- For further resources, case studies and information, visit the Global Dimension website for teachers.