We protect democracy against desinformation

Summary

The project innovatively combined education about democracy with international cooperation. Students explored the principles of democracy through collaborative activities, teamwork in international groups, and communication on the TwinSpace platform. During the mobilities, they stayed with host families, used English in authentic situations, and participated in mock elections. They developed critical thinking skills while learning how to identify disinformation and understand its impact on society. The materials and outputs created during the project were shared with other students and teachers, enriching teaching and learning in all partner schools. 

“As a teacher, I was proud to see students grow in confidence, independence, and openness. They learned far more than facts about democracy – they experienced it in practice, built international friendships, improved their English, and developed critical thinking skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.”

Topic(s) addressed

• Democracy
• Active citizenship
• Critical thinking
• Media literacy
• Disinformation awareness, 
• Intercultural understanding 
• Student participation
• Teamwork 
• Digital collaboration, and 
• Communication in English through international cooperation 

Target group(s)  

• 32 students aged 14–15 and 
• Eight teachers 

The project also included students with fewer opportunities, including those facing social and economic disadvantages. 

Methodologies used

The project introduced students to the principles of democracy through interactive and collaborative activities. Students worked together on presentations, searched for information, verified sources, and analysed different types of media messages, developing critical thinking and media literacy skills. They presented their findings and experiences in international teams, strengthening communication and public speaking skills. 

Working in multinational groups helped students develop tolerance, respect for cultural differences, and intercultural understanding while using English in authentic situations. Learning also took place beyond the classroom through sports activities, shared excursions, and stays with host families, linking formal, non-formal, and informal learning. Students played an active role in planning and leading activities, sometimes taking on the role of teachers. External experts also contributed to the project, enriching the learning experience with their knowledge and practical insights.

Innovation environment

The project created an innovative learning environment combining classroom activities, international mobilities, host family stays, and digital cooperation through TwinSpace. Schools promoted inclusion, teamwork, and active participation, involving students, teachers, school leaders, and families in project activities. Digital tools and project resources were used sustainably and continue to support teaching after the project. External experts, local stakeholders, and host families enriched learning through real-life experiences. Results were widely disseminated through school websites, social media, presentations, and local newspapers. The project was also presented to headteachers of other schools, facilitating the transfer of good practices and extending its impact to the wider educational community.  

Teachers’ role

Teachers played a key role in designing and implementing innovative learning activities. They acted as facilitators, guiding students through collaborative tasks, international teamwork, project-based learning, and inquiry-based activities rather than relying on traditional teaching methods. Teachers fostered a positive and supportive environment that promoted wellbeing, inclusion, confidence, and active participation. 

Through international cooperation, teachers strengthened their professional, digital, language, and intercultural competences while exchanging good practices with colleagues from partner schools. Joint planning, regular communication, classroom observation, and peer learning enabled them to reflect on their teaching approaches and introduce innovative methods into everyday practice. Their active engagement ensured high-quality learning experiences, supported student success, and contributed to the sustainability and long-term impact of the project.

Impact and output

The project had a significant impact on students, teachers, and the wider school community. Students improved their understanding of democracy, critical thinking, media literacy, digital skills, communication, and intercultural competences. Through international cooperation, they gained confidence in using English and developed greater tolerance, respect, and a stronger sense of active citizenship. 

The project included students with fewer opportunities, including those facing social and economic disadvantages, ensuring equal access to international learning experiences. Project outcomes and materials were shared with other students, teachers, parents, school leaders, and local communities through presentations, school websites, social media, and local newspapers, extending the project's impact beyond the direct participants.

Learn more about the project