The Reality of Cosmopolitan Education: To what extent cosmopolitan education is implemented in secondary state-schools in England

Abstract

Cosmopolitanism has been a topic of debate for quite some time. The concept has had many different meanings, and been used in a variety of ways. As part of this discussion cosmopolitan education came about, as a means to educate the young people to be cosmopolitan citizens in a global world. By educating the young minds about the other places of this world, about the politics, culture and other aspects, they will be more associated with other world citizens. However, whether it is desirable and realistic to implement cosmopolitan education is a whole other question. Nowadays the world is very diverse and integrated; this situation is mirrored in the classroom where many different cultures are taught together. This thesis looks at to what extent cosmopolitan education is implemented in the current secondary state-schools in England in order to deal with this diversity. Through a comparative literature analysis, and one interview to clarify and support the main argument, the desirability and implementation of cosmopolitan education will be researched. This showed that it is not desirable that all children should turn out to be cosmopolitans. However, they should be granted the option. Therefore, it is important to take into consideration the cosmopolitan perspective. Governments and educational institutions should strive for a better balance between national and global issues taught at school.