Global education at the teacher and school education levels: Views from pre-service teachers at an Australian higher education institution

Abstract

Political, social and economic events at the global level make it necessary that global education be taught in schools so that young people are aware of their obligations and responsibilities as global citizens. Research shows that teachers' competence in global education is key to successful preparation of young people in schools in this regard.<br/> This paper reports on a study conducted at one Australian higher education institution aimed at finding out pre-service teachers' knowledge of globalisation and global education and views on global education at the teacher and school education levels. Findings indicate that while they are, to some extent, knowledgeable about these concepts participants are not confident enough to teach global education in schools. At the school level little is known about globalisation and global education. Based on findings from this study this paper makes insightful recommendations for the teaching and learning of global education at the teacher and school education levels.