Active Citizenship at Old Yarranlea State School

Abstract

Considerations of Learning Futures are predicated on recognition of the extreme pace of change in contemporary societies and the need for education systems that prepare learners to participate in such dynamic environments. The precepts of active citizenship, which draw upon democratic and humanistic values to emphasise the importance of relationship building and community mindedness, provide both curriculum content for learners and mechanisms for change in school communities. This paper is an ethnographic evaluation of curriculum and pedagogy that examines the culture and perspectives which support active citizenship at Old Yarranlea State School. The paper proposes a metastrategic framework for implementing change, by developing processes that integrate the physical, intellectual, social and emotional components of the school community in a manner that is culturally inclusive, socially sustainable and engaged in the creation and re-creation of democratic principles. The result is an approach to curriculum planning that develops a unique school vision, identity and infrastructure and an approach to pedagogy that is an expansion and application of the curriculum content itself.