The history of European integration and the functioning of the European institutions are specifically covered in around 20 countries (mainly at secondary level), says a study by Eurydice, an information network on education in Europe. The study, which covered 30 European countries, looked into issues such as how pupils are being prepared for their role as responsible European and world citizens.
Further points include:
- The majority of countries take account of the European dimension in their in-service teacher training, but only eight officially recommend its inclusion in initial teacher education.
- Teachers have opportunities for participation in foreign exchanges or study visits within European programmes.
- Europe is more present in secondary education than primary education curricula.
In the former communist bloc, preparing young citizens for constructive participation in national and European society is one of the main aims of the educational reforms they have implemented since 1990.
The study is particularly relevant as, following its meeting on 23 and 24 May, the Education Council called on the Commission to develop Lisbon-related performance indicator strategies for areas including active citizenship.
