wsa_en

coACTION Project ModulePage 5/24Whole School Approach The three ‘cogwheels’ of democratic school development: needs - participation - competences As described in the module democratic school culture: the integration of needs- orientation, participation and competence builing , three central factors interlock like cogwheels: ● Glasser's basic psychological needs: Safety, belonging, power, freedom, fun ● Sherry Arnstein's ladder of participation: From sham participation to citizen control ● Democratic competences according to the Council of Europe (RFCDC): z. e.g. empathy, judgement, dialogue skills, responsibility These three levels are interdependent: children and adults can only participate if they feel safe and that they belong. Democratic competences can only develop if participation is genuine. And only when skills grow can participation be organised in a meaningful way. Your task as a school leader or teacher is to create a framework in which these three areas mutually reinforce each other. Basic psychological needs (Glasser) - put into practice Security, belonging, power, freedom and fun are not just individual desires - they are the basis for democratic behaviour. Group Practical example School management A transparent communication culture is established: Decisions made by the school council are explained in letters to parents, on notices in the school building and in a child-friendly manner in the class council. This increases safety and orientation for everyone. Teachers Children choose their own tasks or topics within the weekly timetable. They can decide with whom and how they want to work. This fulfils the need for freedom - and increases motivation.