Module 2. How to check your democracy level

Guide to Democratic Empowerment M2 Page 9/12 July 2025 particularly important that the questions are answered honestly. Explain to them that the result is only an overview of the answers of the whole class and that no individual answers are analysed. It is therefore not possible to find out who gave which answer. Allow sufficient time to answer the questionnaire and play quiet music while the questionnaire is being completed so that everyone can concentrate on their work. Make sure that all pupils complete the questionnaire and also click on the ‘Send’ button so that their answers can be saved in the system. Sensor survey of Parents Reaching the group of parents to answer the sensor is possibly the most difficult. Prepare this step carefully by introducing the Year of Democracy at the beginning of the school year, referring to it again and again in conversations and thus preparing the parents and making them curious that they will fill out a questionnaire. In order to reach as many parents as possible for the sensor survey, we recommend using one of the following options or combining several of them: à The school organises a parents' evening during which the Sensor is completed. à The parents' association organises an event on the topic of ‘Democracy at our school’, during which the Sensor is completed. à Parents receive an information email containing everything they need to know about the survey, as well as a link to the Sensor tutorial and registration. à The pupils take home an information letter containing everything the parents need to know about the survey. Here are some tips for conducting the survey during an event: Start with a lively introduction: You could begin by giving an example of what democracy can look like in the classroom. Then let the parents in attendance discuss in small groups which aspects are particularly important to them. Give specific examples of how parents can get involved in the school: ‘Last year, thanks to parent feedback, we made our break rules more flexible. This year, we would like to ask you about your concerns regarding digital learning in a similar way.’ Explain to parents why their honest assessment helps to set goals that can contribute to their children's long-term development. Then explain the online tool. Give a live presentation on how to register and get started with the sensor and how to fill it out. Ask parents to use their smartphones to answer the questionnaire and provide a few tablets, computers or laptops if necessary. Invite parents to get started right there on the spot.