Module 2. How to check your democracy level

Guide to Democratic Empowerment M2 Page 7/12 July 2025 Then introduce the coACTION Sensor. Gather all participants around tablets or laptops and show them step by step how to log in and fill out the form. The coACTION Sensor can be completed on a smartphone, tablet, laptop or computer. While the participants are individually completing the questionnaire, invite them to an ‘open space’ station: anyone who has technical questions can come to the moderator's table; anyone who feels uncertain about the content can receive brief explanations of the questions there. This prevents frustration and ensures that everyone feels confident and well supported. Right afterwards, gather first impressions: Which questions were clear, and which require more in-depth discussion? Make a note of these points so that you can use the tool even more effectively the next time you use it. Use the insights you have gained to formulate specific guiding questions for your next meeting, e.g.: ‘How can we further strengthen the feeling of participation?’ Sensor survey of Teachers Also, the teachers can answer the Sensor during a team meeting. Start with a short story to set the mood: for example, tell about a school project that originated from an idea put forward by students. Then introduce the coACTION Sensor. Remind everyone of the goals of the Year of Democracy and that the sensor is used to assess the current situation in order to set relevant democracy goals for the school year. Point out that the questionnaire is anonymous and that only honest answers will help to strengthen democracy at your school. Discuss one set of questions as an example and invite your colleagues to think aloud (‘What do I understand by “democratic skills”?’). This will encourage reflection even before they start filling out the questionnaire. Explain the use of the online tool. Give a live presentation on how to register and get started with the sensor and how to fill it out. The teachers can use their own smartphones, tablets or laptops to answer the questionnaire or use devices of the school, if necessary. During the fill-out session, invite participants to an ‘open space’ station: anyone with technical questions can come to the moderator’s table; those who feel uncertain about the content can get brief explanations of the wording of the questions there. This prevents frustration and ensures that everyone feels confident and well supported. At the end of the survey session, add a feedback round: What worked well, where were there ambiguities? This meta-feedback forms the basis for making the process even smoother for parents and pupils. Sensor survey of Pupils