- The starting point of the activity could be conversations and opinion surveys about the various issues organized by adults. Planning, implementing, managing, monitoring and evaluating projects are great ways to participate.
- Have students voice their opinions about projects being planned at school. Encouraging initiatives such as creating a school newspaper, radio program or website, setting up theme clubs, talent shows, economic or ecological campaigns can contribute to a democratic school life.
- Local NGOs, community service organizations, street programs, festivals, the Internet, and new media platforms offer various opportunities to engage students.
- Students living in poverty or in institutions often lack even the most minimal form of participation. Perhaps the school could involve them as well?
- A safe environment is necessary for this activity. Only when students are heard about all processes that affect them can their interests be truly respected.
Show ways, in which students can participate in decision making (with adults).
Students learn to make decisions and are empowered to take action.
Information, lists and handouts that relate to nonviolent communication.
Evaluation of this activity is best done at the beginning of each day with the entire group to allow everyone to experience the process transparently. Who decides what form of participation is appropriate for youth at different levels of maturity? How is such a decision made?
Ask students what they experienced in these discussions. How did they feel about being allowed to participate in this? Did they need help with anything? What did they discover about participating in decision-making?
As a teacher, what do you think we can do to bring our young people into the organization without exposing them to adult manipulation?
