INTERCULTURAL EDUCATION

INTERCULTURAL EDUCATION– The Answer to Diversity in the Classroom (6-day/ 7-day) Limassol

Significant ethnic, social and religious groups have been part of our society. In the context of increasing diversity in our society, schools have a role to play. Intercultural Education is the response to classroom diversity aiming to go beyond passive coexistence, to achieve a developing and sustainable way of living together in multicultural societies through the creation of understanding of, respect for and α productive dialogue between the different groups. Intercultural education is valuable to all pupils in equipping them with skills to participate in an increasingly diverse society. Through programmes that encourage dialogue between pupils of different cultures, beliefs, religions and individual characteristics education can make an important and meaningful contribution to societies.

This 6-day course gives participants theoretical background about intercultural education, as well as practical guidelines to integrate activities and implement programmes across the areas of curriculum and school life. Discussions, site visits and group work will enrich sharing ideas and exchange of practice between participants. There is also the possibility to extend the course to 7-day.

The cost for 6-day course is 480 euro and for 7-day course is 560 euro. It includes course fees, course material, entrance to museums and tours.

Objectives

During the course, participants will

discuss issues about diversity, understanding differences, cultural diversity, multiculturalism, Multicultural & Intercultural Education
study the aims, role, characteristics and models of Intercultural Education
examine ways of managing diversity in classroom and creating inclusive culture in schools
introduce the importance of cultural awareness and understanding cultures in building relationships and explore activities for cultural awareness
discuss the integration of intercultural content across the areas of curriculum and identify opportunities
get in touch with Cypriot communities and their coexistence; and the intercultural education in Cyprus
examine the use of ICT tools for classroom communication, intercultural dialogue and finding resources
plan intercultural activities and elaborate examples of good practice visit sites, museums, monuments etc. and plan activities/ programmes

Methodology

The working methods that are used are highly practical and participatory. The experiential method is used to encourage the search for contemporary pedagogical theories and teaching approaches. The hands-on approach is used to examine real examples, case studies, surveys and simulations. The group activities foster mutual learning, cooperation and collaboration between participants. The discussions encourage sharing ideas, intercultural dialogue and the exchange of good practices between the participants. Social, networking and cultural activities give participants the opportunity to establish professional cooperation and links with teachers, staff, schools and organisations in Europe. At the end of the course, participants fill in an e-questionnaire for evaluation.

Preparation

After confirming registration, participants will be informed about the details of the course (arrival, daily programme etc.). Participants will be able to introduce themselves and bring a few examples of activities/ programmes about diversity implemented by their school or community.

Course schedule

DAY 1

Dimensions of diversity
Understanding differences
Activities for cultural awareness and expression
Minorities and migration
Activities for team building
How do we deal with classroom diversity?
Multicultural & Intercultural education
ICT tools for classroom communication

DAY 2

Visit to Limassol Old city center, Carob Mill Museum, Medieval Castle & Museum and other monuments.
Doing activities in the city center.
Data collection for the group work.