We are becoming an increasingly globalized society, so it is encouraging to see that many people are recognizing the importance social and empathetic skills hold at this time. We need to shift away from the 20th century idea of individualism, which is at odds with the developments in communication and trade. Empathy allows for us to see others as human and as the world becomes increasingly interconnected we need to make sure our communities are aware of other cultures and are understanding of perspectives different from their own.

 

Skills such as empathy don’t need to be taught in isolated lessons, they can be incorporated into existing subject areas,  so subjects that centre around storytelling such as literature and drama are a great place to start. They provide the perfect landscape in which to harness and highlight emotional and social skills. Including theter and performing arts in school curricula would help a lot. 

Global issues can be addressed in the classroom through a wide and evolving variety of participatory teaching and learning methodologies, including structured discussion and debate, role-play, ranking exercises, and communities of enquiry. Such active methods are now established as good practice in education, and are not unique to global citizenship. Curriculum for Excellence has at its core a commitment to improved student participation in order to develop the four capacities: successful learners, confident individuals, responsible citizens and effective contributors.

How had different cultures aided in current scientific theory and thought

Evolution: a biological commonality

Sustainability: ecological interconnectedness 

Scientific language: commonality across cultural band

Goals: creating an organic world