Educating for democratic engagement in Botswana's democracy: challenges of promoting democratic education

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Periodical article

Title:	Educating for democratic engagement in Botswana's democracy: challenges of promoting democratic education
Author:	Jotia, Agreement Lathi
Year:	2011
Periodical:	Journal of Social Development in Africa (ISSN 1012-1080)
Volume:	26
Issue:	1
Pages:	135-160
Language:	English
Notes:	biblio. refs.
Geographic terms:	Botswana Southern Africa
Subjects:	citizenship education democracy teaching methods education Democracy and education
Abstract:	In order for democracy to be sustained in any country, it is of fundamental importance that the education system should teach citizens about democracy and how to participate in the democratic process. Focusing on education for democratic engagement in Botswana, this paper argues that in order for Botswanan citizens to actively participate in the democratic process, there is a need for schools to shift their focus and promote democratic education through pedagogies such as critical inquiry, sharing experiences, debating and promoting dialogue. This will create a learning environment which is congruent with Botswana's democratic principles. The paper argues that a pragmatic curriculum would help advance civic-mindedness and political consciousness. Furthermore, multiculturalism should be taken into account in order to close cultural gaps in the school environment and in society. Bibliogr., sum. [Journal abstract, edited]