Essay as a tool for teacher training in Education for Citizenship and Human Rights

Abstract

This paper is a part of an educational innovation project in the training of teachers of Citizenship Education and Human Rights, which participated 54% of the 3rd undergraduate students in UMA’s Primary Education (2019/20). We summarise the first findings of on-going research on essay-writing as the primary learning activity for developing higher education analytical skills. Firstly, we discuss the importance of promoting critical thinking (CT). Secondly, we review the state-of-the-art using essay-writing in the university classroom. None of the studies consulted did it in this discipline. Finally, we approach our research question: is essay-writing a suitable tool for critical thinking (CT) training for Education for Citizenship and Human Rights’ primary education teachers? Qualitative analysis of the students’ work showed that essay-writing as a tool for teacher training was an innovative tool. Furthermore, we were able to verify how independent research and essay-writing: 1) improved the skills associated with critical thinking, 2) helped to achieve competences for working life through the integration of reflective practices, 3) innovated in the appropriation of knowledge, emphasising student-centred learning, and 4) helped the development of strategies for information, awareness, consciousness and empowerment. However, it also identified shortcomings concerning the students’ writing and argumentative skills that we could improve by implementing specific workshops.