EPKO research project successfully completed
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The study on the development of political and social competence in adolescence (EPKO) was successfully completed after running for several years. Since 2019, the project has been dedicated to the conception and operationalization of civic literacy as a key competence in political education.
The target group comprised secondary school students (grades 7–10). Over the course of the project, more than 2,000 students at mainstream schools were surveyed annually in order to collect comprehensive data, some of which was longitudinal in nature.
One of the key findings was the development and empirical testing of a multidimensional competency model for civic literacy. This model was discussed and validated in three expert workshops with researchers from the field of political education. A total of five data collections took place, including a pilot study.
The survey instruments were evaluated using psychometric quality criteria, which demonstrated that teaching with different objectives is necessary. Cognitive activation and an open classroom climate were highlighted as crucial for political interest.
Furthermore, a practical guide for schools was created, providing materials to promote civic literacy. The results of the project will be presented at national and international conferences and supplemented by open access publications.
Further information: EPKO project website