To what extent can global citizenship be promoted in general studies? An evaluative study of global citizen education in general studies textbooks

Lok Lam WONG

Research output: ThesisHonours Projects (HP)

Abstract

In preparation for the challenges brought by globalization, citizenship in global context is highlighted and promoted worldwide (Günel & Pehlivan, 2015; Law, 2004). Global citizenship education (GCE) means the education that lead to formation of global citizenship. In Hong Kong formal educational setting, GCE in primary school level is mainly infused into General Studies (GS) (Canto ́n & Garcia, 2018; Po & et al, 2007; UNESCO, 2014). Textbook which makes influence on course and syllabus in schools is regarded as a fundamental tool in worldwide education context (Augus, 2004; Harwood, 2017; Patricia & et al, 2016). Particular for Hong Kong, textbook hold an indispensable status in nurturing global consciousness and global competencies that contribute to the build-up of global citizenship. (Dill, 2013; Goren & Yemini, 2017; Lo & Chong, 2015).
This research is aimed to (1) investigate what domains (knowledge, skills, and values and attitudes) and areas (e.g. environment, human right and technology) of global citizenship do the GS textbooks focus on, (2) evaluate whether the content of GS textbooks in relation to global citizenship is in line with the global educational trend, and (3) suggest ways to enhance to promotion of global citizenship education in GS. Two sets of textbooks which are《今日常識新領域(第三版)》 published by Educational Publishing House and《朗文活學常識》 published by Pearson Hong Kong are analysed. Qualitative research methods are adopted in this research.
It is found that two sets of GS textbooks provide a fundamental knowledge base to students which is beneficial to the development of skills as well as values and attitudes among GCE (Cho, 2016; Ibrahim, 2005). They attempt to connect students to the global community. Yet, it is impossible for textbook to take a solo role in promoting citizenship, especially that in the global level. Some gaps still need to be filled by teachers and schools (Herlinda, 2014).
Original languageEnglish
QualificationBachelor of Education (Honours)
Supervisors/Advisors
  • CHONG, King Man, Eric 莊璟珉, Supervisor
Publication statusPublished - 2020

Keywords

  • Global citizenship education
  • General studies
  • Primary school
  • Textbook research
  • Honours Project (HP)
  • Bachelor of Education (Honours) (Primary) – General Studies and Mathematics (Five-year Full-time)
  • Programme code: A5B058
  • Course code: INS4909

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