The following is a short interview conducted by Euractiv with literature teacher Dawid Kiełbasa from the tCLVI Liceum Ogólnokształcące Integracyjne (Warsaw) on the need to integrate EU concepts into the high school geography curriculum.
E: Dear Professor, as a geography teacher, how do you think the history of the EU can be integrated into your lessons?
DK: For me, as a geography teacher, the history of the European Union can be an excellent resource to use in the classroom. I can use the history of the European Union to help students understand the complex relationships between countries and regions. For example, the European Union began as a group of six countries that wanted to promote economic cooperation and collaboration and avoid future conflict. Over time, it has expanded to include 27 member states, each with a unique geography and culture. Importantly, the EU promotes the free movement of people between member states, which has led to increased cultural exchange and understanding.
E: Could you explain in more detail how you would structure your lessons?
DK: In a geography class, I can explain how the EU has influenced the physical and human geography of the continent. For example, the EU has implemented policies and programs to promote environmental protection, which has helped address issues such as climate change, pollution, and deforestation. It has also facilitated the movement of people and goods across borders, leading to changes in migration patterns, economic development, and urbanization.
In my class, we can discuss EU economic integration, including the single market, the euro and the single currency, the euro and the EU budget. Students can also discuss the impact of the EU on trade, investment and economic development.
E: Thank you Professor. What do you think is the most important aspect of the first module that you would like to pass on to your students?
DK: One of the most important aspects is the political integration of the EU. It is important for students to know the role of the European Parliament, the Council of the European Union and the European Commission. Understanding the history, structure and policies of the EU is essential for anyone interested in European affairs. By examining the current challenges facing the EU, we can also understand the opportunities and risks of European integration in the 21st century.
