Politics and Society · 5th Year · Globalisation and Localisation · 4.º Período

Identity and Culture in a Globalised World

Students will reflect on how globalisation influences national and cultural identities. The topic explores the concept of global citizenship and how diversity is shaping modern Irish society.

TL;DR:This final topic explores how globalisation reshapes national and cultural identities. Students reflect on what it means to be 'Irish' in a diverse, interconnected world and examine the concept of 'global citizenship.' The unit addresses the tension between the 'homogenization' of culture (everyone watching the same movies, eating the same food) and the 'hybridization' of culture (new, unique blends of local and global traditions).

• NCCA Curriculum Specifications
• Leaving Certificate Politics and Society, Strand 4, LO 4.7
• Leaving Certificate Politics and Society, Strand 4, LO 4.8

About This Topic

This final topic explores how globalisation reshapes national and cultural identities. Students reflect on what it means to be 'Irish' in a diverse, interconnected world and examine the concept of 'global citizenship.' The unit addresses the tension between the 'homogenization' of culture (everyone watching the same movies, eating the same food) and the 'hybridization' of culture (new, unique blends of local and global traditions).

In the context of modern Ireland, this topic is highly relevant as students navigate a society that is more diverse than ever before. It encourages them to value diversity and understand the 'multiple identities' we all carry. This topic comes alive when students can share their own cultural experiences and engage in collaborative projects that celebrate the diverse identities within their own school and community.

Key Questions

1. How does globalisation impact national identity?
2. What does it mean to be a global citizen?
3. How is cultural diversity shaping modern Ireland?

Watch Out for These Misconceptions

Common Misconception

Globalisation will eventually make every country exactly the same.

What to Teach Instead

While some 'Americanization' happens, many cultures adapt global influences to create something new (hybridization). Peer discussion on 'Glocalization' (global ideas adapted to local tastes) helps students see that local culture is often very resilient.

Common Misconception

You have to choose between being 'patriotic' and being a 'global citizen.'

What to Teach Instead

These identities can coexist. You can care deeply about your local community and country while also recognizing your responsibility to the wider world. An 'Identity Mapping' exercise helps students see how these roles can complement each other.

Active Learning Ideas

Think-Pair-Share

The 'Identity Onion'

Students draw an 'onion' with different layers representing their identities (e.g., Irish, European, Gamer, Musician, Local town). They pair up to discuss which layers are 'local' and which are 'global.' This helps them see that identity is complex and multi-layered in a globalised world.

25 min·Pairs

Gallery Walk

Cultural Fusion in Ireland

Students bring in or find images of 'Cultural Fusion' in modern Ireland (e.g., Irish-language hip hop, an Irish-Indian wedding, a GAA club with players from 10 different countries). They display these and discuss how globalisation can enrich local culture rather than just replacing it.

45 min·Small Groups

Inquiry Circle

The Global Citizen's Toolkit

In small groups, students define what 'Global Citizenship' means to them. They must identify three 'skills' (e.g., empathy, media literacy) and three 'actions' (e.g., ethical consuming, staying informed) that a global citizen should have. They create a 'digital poster' to share their toolkit.

40 min·Small Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

How has immigration changed the concept of 'Irishness'?

Ireland has moved from being a country of emigration to a country of immigration. This has made 'Irishness' more inclusive and pluralistic. Discussing the 'New Irish', people from diverse backgrounds who are shaping Irish culture through sport, art, and politics, is a key part of this unit.

What are the best hands-on strategies for teaching cultural identity?

Storytelling and 'Human Libraries' are very effective. When students hear the lived experience of someone with a different cultural background, the abstract concept of 'diversity' becomes a human connection. If a guest speaker isn't possible, using high-quality video testimonials or 'identity interviews' between students works well.

What does the NCCA mean by 'Global Citizenship'?

It refers to the idea that our actions have global consequences and that we have rights and responsibilities not just as members of a nation, but as members of the human race. It's about having the knowledge and skills to act for a more just and sustainable world.

How can we discuss sensitive topics like racism or xenophobia?

Use a 'Safe Space' agreement and focus on the 'Rights and Responsibilities' framework. Analyze racism as a violation of human rights and a barrier to active citizenship. Using 'scenario-based' learning (e.g., 'What would you do if you saw this online?') helps students practice being an 'active bystander' in a safe environment.