Interview on Education in Times of Crisis: What Can Schools Do When War Breaks Out?
Anja Besand, a professor of educational didactics, discusses how schools can adapt and support students during crises like wars, highlighting the impact of war on education and providing practical resources for teachers and students.
In an extensive interview, Anja Besand, a Professor of Didactics of Political Education at TU Dresden, addresses the critical impacts of war and crises on educational settings. Her research has sparked the development of a comprehensive educational framework aimed at teachers and school leaders, providing guidance for operating under exceptional circumstances. The framework includes over 200 pages of strategies and exercises designed to equip schools during tumultuous times, especially in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Besand emphasizes the necessity of preparing schools for various crises, noting that conflicts like the Ukraine war can drastically disrupt daily educational practices. She suggests specific strategies and practical exercises that educators can implement to support both teachers and students more effectively in coping with the challenges brought on by such emergencies. This preparation not only aids in immediate crisis response but also promotes resilience within the school community.
The recommendations provided in her interview are particularly timely, reflecting the urgent need for adaptable educational models in crisis situations. As schools continue to face disruptions from wars and natural disasters, Besand's insights will be crucial for creating supportive and effective learning environments that can withstand external shocks.