GreenVETers; Embedding 'citizen deliberation' and 'deliberative democracy' for sustainable development into the official VET curricula

The decision to apply for the project outlined above was driven by a pressing need to address the unfolding environmental crisis, both at the global and local levels. This crisis has garnered incr...

The project aimed to address the environmental crisis by integrating principles of Deliberative Democracy and Citizen Deliberation (CD) into public and private debates, aligning with initiatives like the EU's Green Deal. Key objectives included enhancing democratic participation, particularly among younger generations, and fostering media literacy and active citizenship to address environmental challenges effectively. Furthermore, the project sought to fill gaps in Vocational Education and Training (VET) schools regarding climate action and democratic principles, aiming to equip students with the skills needed for 'green' occupations and sustainable development practices. By involving all stakeholders and promoting structured education and informed debate, the project aimed to empower VET educators and students to advocate for a 'green' transformation in their vocational fields, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable future. In summary, our decision to pursue this project was motivated by the pressing need to tackle the environmental crisis through democratic engagement and sustainable development practices this with the alignment of the EU's climate action objectives.

As said the project was initiated in response to the urgent need to address the escalating environmental crisis, particularly evident through global and local challenges. Recognizing the necessity for action, especially in light of initiatives like the EU's Green Deal, the project aimed to implement principles of Deliberative Democracy and Citizen Deliberation (CD) into public and private debates. It identified a deficit in democratic participation among younger generations and emphasized the importance of active engagement in democratic processes, particularly regarding climate action. Furthermore, the project aimed to enhance media literacy, active citizenship, and effective advocacy strategies within democratic societies through the promotion of deliberative democracy. It addressed gaps in Vocational Education and Training (VET) schools, focusing on climate action and principles of deliberative democracy, aiming to equip students with skills for 'green' occupations and sustainable development. By aligning with the objectives of the EU's Green Deal, the project aimed to strengthen VET schools' contribution to sustainability and climate action while empowering educators and students to advocate for a greener future through democratic participation.

The project concrete outputs and results are; 1. Development of a unique Online Training Course (OTC) for VET educators, incorporating democratic principles and focusing on the EU's Green Deal within vocation-specific courses. This methodology includes guidance on climate change, the Green Deal, and citizen engagement for sustainability advocacy in Agriculture and Engineering VET curricula. 2. Familiarization of VET educators and students with citizen engagement concepts through knowledge exchanges and advocacy initiatives for climate action within Agriculture and Engineering fields. 3. Creation of educational materials: - Handbook introducing citizen deliberation and deliberative democracy for achieving Green Deal objectives. - Pedagogical Guide helping educators understand the pedagogical benefits of implementing citizen deliberation in addressing climate change. - OTC focusing on CD and the Green Deal for VET educators in Agriculture & Engineering, promoting innovation and sustainability. 4. Compilation of a report showcasing good practices, including Socratic seminars with environmental policymakers and video testimonials. Additionally, the project conducted National Workshops/Field Tests and Multiplier Events: - Field tests involved 50 VET teachers and 125 VET students across partner countries, transmitting the OTC methodology. - Socratic seminars engaged educators, students, and policymakers from partner countries. - Four Transnational Meetings were held with two individuals from each partner organization. - Five Multiplier Events, including National Symposia and a Final Conference, facilitated knowledge dissemination and engagement with local participants across partner countries.