Citizenship Skills, Processes and Methods

Understanding Citizenship Skills, Processes and Methods

Critical Thinking and Enquiry

• Evaluating arguments is fundamental in forming a balanced opinion. Being able to assess different viewpoints, evidence and sources are key skills.
• Questioning is an integral process. This covers forming intelligent and meaningful questions about issues, seeking answers and challenging received knowledge.
• Drawing conclusions based on evidence and informed arguments. Conclusions need to be balanced, thoughtful and considered.

Advocacy and Representation

• Communicating and articulating views in a clear, thoughtful and convincing manner. This might be through writing, speaking, or digital media.
• Representing views and interests of others. Understand your own views, the views of others, and accepting that others may have different beliefs or opinions.
• Advocating for your views, or the views of others. This means arguing why a certain position or idea is good or valuable and should be accepted or considered.

Taking Informed and Responsible Action

• Taking action as part of a democratic process. This could involve letter-writing, peaceful demonstration, or getting involved in local or national politics.
• Being responsible. Understand the impact of your actions on others, make ethical decisions and take responsibility for your actions.
• Evaluating impact. After taking action, it’s important to look at the effects and what was achieved, to inform future actions.

Skills for Effective Participation

• Negotiation and a conflict resolution. Learn how to reach a mutually acceptable agreement through discussion and compromise.
• Problem-solving. Identify problems, consider possible solutions, and make decisions based on this information.
• Active participation. Involvement in groups or projects, such as taking part in a local charity event, is important in demonstrating citizenship.

Remember, these skills, processes and methods are intertwined and applied simultaneously. Always think critically and take informed, responsible action in expressing your views and supporting those of others.