Project-based learning to enhance recognition and acceptance of cultural diversity in the elementary school

Abstract

Currently more than 1.000.000 people from foreign countries live in Greece and about 10% of pupil population is consisted of immigrants’ children. International research about natives’ attitudes towards immigrants reports the existence of strong prejudices and stereotypes. Similar research findings have been reported in the context of schooling and education. Based on these research findings and aiming to reduce stereotypes/prejudices as well as to get to know the different aspects that immigrant pupils bring to school, an intercultural educational program with main axis the concept of ‘town’ is designed. The objective of this research lies in investigating the extent to which project-based learning and group work can a) reduce ethnic prejudices and b) promote recognition and acceptance of cultural diversity. A case study research design is employed and an educational program is implemented within an elementary school classroom. Through pupil discussion and speculation, the recognition of ‘foreign’ as a corpus in town over time and, furthermore as part of self is met. A website presenting each town is also designed. Such a presentation requires linguistic pluralism and the development of skills for intercultural communication. Within this frame of action pupils have the opportunity to recognize the value of each pupil’s linguistic chapter. They can realise the importance of knowing and be interested in immigrant pupils’ languages as well as discovering that language pluralism is meaningful in the town they all live.