Schools Information
What is Development Education?
Development education aims to raise awareness and understanding of how global issues affect the lives of individuals, communities and societies and how all of us can and do influence the global society we live in - as active global citizens. It aims to bring global perspectives into all aspects of learning - the school classroom, universities, local community activities, the media.
The DEA defines development education as lifelong learning that:
- explores the links between people living in the "developed" countries of the North with those of the "developing" South, enabling people to understand the links between their own lives and those of people throughout the world
- increases understanding of the economic, social, political and environmental forces which shape our lives
- develops the skills, attitues and values which enable people to work together to take action to bring about change and take control of their own lives
- works towards achieving a more just and a more sustainable world in which power and resources are more equitably shared.
The Global Dimension
The term 'global dimension' refers to the extent which global development issues are integrated within the formal curriculum. A 'global dimension' is seen as a way of extending pupils' views of the world by exploring their perceptions and connections and helping them recognise different cultural and political perspectives.
The global dimension can be understood through 8 concepts that provide a conceptual framework for thinking about and building them into the curriculum:
- Global Citizenship
Gaining the knowledge, skills and understanding of concepts and institutions necessary to become informed, active responsible citizens.
- Conflict Resolution
Understanding the nature of conflicts, their impact on development and why there is a need for their resolution and the promotion of harmony.
- Diversity
Understanding and respecting differences and relating these to our common humanity.
- Human Rights
Knowing about human rights including the UN Convention on the Rights of Children.
- Interdependence
Understanding how people, places and environments are all inextricably interrelated and that choices and events have repercussions on a global scale
- Social Justice
Understanding the importance of social justice as an element in both sustainable development and the improved welfare of all people.
- Values and Perceptions
Developing a critical evaluation of representations of global issues and an appreciation of the effect these have on people's attitudes and values.
- Sustainable Development
Understanding the need to maintain and improve the quality of life now without damaging the planet for future generations.
The Global Dimension key concepts are taken from Developing a global dimension in the school curriculum, DFID, DfES, QCA, DEA, Sure Start, British Council, September 2005
These concepts provide opportunities to develop classroom activities and whole school projects where the views and experience of each partner school will enrich the teaching and learning by bringing to them an authentic global dimension.
For further information about the global dimension visit