Peace
Philosophical Enquiry Advancing Cosmopolitan Engagement (2012-2015)
Project Number: 527659-LLP-1-2012-IT
The complexity of globalisation processes affecting both European and non-European countries requires cosmopolitan thinking. This in turn requires the development of specific pedagogical strategies with the aim of promoting intercultural dialogue and the emergence of new identities that can arise within the framework of our commitment to a common coexistence. Philosophical-pedagogical strategies equip learners with cognitive, affective and social skills that prepare them for active citizenship in a pluralistic and complex society. This means raising awareness of the importance of cultural and linguistic diversity and counteracting racism, prejudice and xenophobia.
An effective pedagogical approach to developing cosmopolitan engagement is through the promotion of complex thinking within a philosophical community of inquiry, enabling children and young people to use critical, creative and empathetic thinking (caring thinking) to develop understanding of complex cultural differences, value systems and processes. By applying the proven methodology of philosophizing with children, in which complex thinking is encouraged through the development of a philosophical community of inquiry, this project seeks to create a cosmopolitan environment in which children/young people from different cultures can be open and develop their own identity, become aware of their own and others' potentials and appreciate them. This can create a just society. By making children and young people who are affected by poverty, marginalisation and social exclusion, as well as children from the majority of society, part of such a community of inquiry, they can meet each other on an equal footing in order to give meaning to the world. In doing so, they can develop a world view and find their own answer to the question "How should we live?".
The PEACE project focuses primarily on the development, testing and evaluation of a new P4C curriculum that places cosmopolitan engagement and intercultural dialogue at the centre of interest. PEACE contributes to pedagogical practice by supporting teachers in their special professional development, familiarising them with new teaching methods and materials that promote children and young people in their thinking and personal development. By making these innovative philosophical-pedagogical strategies, the curriculum and numerous further resources accessible to other contexts and countries, the PEACE project expands its reach and thus contributes to cosmopolitan awareness.
The ultimate goal of PEACE is to spread the idea that the development of a cosmopolitan orientated life and engagement among future citizens is possible through appropriate educational tools and practice in as many areas of the society as possible.