This module aims to equip participants with the theoretical understanding and practical skills necessary to become effective democratic educators. It focuses on cultivating pedagogical well-being and the competencies essential for fostering democratic culture in diverse and dynamic educational environments. By integrating philosophical foundations and actionable teaching strategies, the module supports students in developing their professional identity as educators in Politics and Society while promoting an appreciation for democratic values, human rights, and cultural diversity. Effective democratic teaching requires not only a deep understanding of pedagogical theories but also the ability to critically reflect on one's role and practices in the classroom. Grounded in the works of John Dewey, Maxine Greene and Paulo Freire, the module emphasizes the importance of imagination, critical thinking, and intercultural communication and aligns with the Council of Europe's Competencies for Democratic Culture framework.

This module will consider what does it mean to experience teaching effectiveness as a teacher of politics and society, in particular, what does it mean to be an effective democratic teacher? Particular attention will be paid to: Council of Europe (2018) Reference Framework for Democratic Culture Vol. 1: Context, concepts and model. Strasbourg: Council of Europe Publishing. The Reference Framework identifies 20 core competencies for effective active citizenship. This module will introduce the learners to several foundational theorists who speak to education for democracy. Learners will be invited to reflect on how they will be able to embed the said competences for democratic culture as part of their own pedagogical practices. This module will introduce the learners to several foundational theorists who speak to education for democracy including John Dewey, Maxine Greene and Paulo Freire.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: Identify aspects of teaching effectiveness to inform their developing professional identity as a teacher of Politics and Society. Apply the Council of Europe's Competencies for Democratic Culture framework to design teaching strategies that promote democratic engagement, cultural diversity, and social justice. Evaluate the intersections of economics, sociology, philosophy, and policy in shaping educational systems and practices in a globalizing world. Engage with a pedagogical case-study relevant to the key content.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: - Reflect on their role as democratic educators, integrating knowledge of educational origins, social change, and policy influences into their developing professional identity. - Nurture imagination, empathy, and intercultural communication skills in addressing the challenges of fostering inclusive and equitable educational environments. - Explore the impact of globalization on national educational practices and policies, analyzing its implications for democratic teaching and pedagogical well-being.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: n/a

Flipped classroom learning model. Pre-tutorial preparation with a focus on readings, recorded lectures, and staying updated on Irish current affairs. Working in groups to tackle problem-solving scenarios and participation in classroom debates. Pedagogical Content Knowledge (PCK) shall be supported with engagement with a relevant case- study. Reflective Journal Submission (Portfolio Entry)