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UniServity Innovative Teacher Network > News
Digital Democracy @Tideway School
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Digital Democracy
Pupils at Tideway School in Newhaven, East Sussex, are getting their first taste of 'democracy' thanks to the school virtual learning environment (VLE).
To coincide with the forthcoming general election, the technology department at the school has launched an online project to introduce pupils to the political parties and the voting process. Pupils will 'play' the part of representatives from the main political parties and canvass for support. All pupils will then have the opportunity to vote online on the VLE for the candidate of their choice.
The results of the whole school election will be announced on the same day as those from the national election. Norman Baker, MP for Lewes, has agreed to launch the project by hosting a workshop in school on March 29th to answer pupil questions about his experiences of being an MP. Mr Baker will formally 'declare' open the Digital Democracy area on the school VLE and pupil candidates will begin to convince their school electorate why they should vote for them. The turn out of voters is expected to be higher than that in most elections!
"We do think it's extremely important in school to educate pupils about the political process and encourage them to get involved", said Jim Fanning, Assistant Headteacher at the school. "Technology offers a great way of getting pupils interested in national events and raising an awareness of just how important it is to vote". Pupils currently vote for the school council and the post of Young Mayor.
If you would like more information please contact:
Jim Fanning/Assistant Headteacher
fanningj@tidewayschool.org
Sue Meale/PA to the Headteacher
meales@tidewayschool.org
Tel. (01273) 517601
www.tidewayschool.org
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Fiona Aubrey-Smith
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Posted From : UniServity Innovative Teacher Network
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