Active learning ideas
Global inequality is one of the most pressing issues of our time. This topic investigates the vast differences in wealth, health, and education between the Global North and the Global South. Students explore the NCCA LCA Social Education themes of global development, focusing on the causes of poverty like historical colonialism, unfair trade, and debt. They also study the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a framework for international action.
Activity 01
Students are divided into 'rich' and 'poor' nations with different resources (paper, scissors, pencils). They must trade to manufacture products, experiencing firsthand how unfair trade rules favor certain countries.
What are the main causes of global poverty?
Activity 02
Students move between stations representing different SDGs (e.g., No Poverty, Gender Equality). They identify one local and one global action that could help achieve each goal.
How do the Sustainable Development Goals aim to improve the world?
Activity 03
Groups research a specific project funded by Irish Aid in a partner country. They present how the project addresses a specific need, such as clean water or climate-smart farming.
What is Ireland's role in overseas development aid?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Global poverty is just about a lack of money.
Teachers should explain that poverty is also about a lack of power, access to justice, and opportunity. Active learning exercises that focus on 'capabilities' help students see the multi-dimensional nature of development.
Developing countries are 'poor' because they don't work hard.
It is vital to discuss systemic issues like the legacy of colonialism and unfair global trade structures. Peer-led investigations into the history of specific regions can help students understand the root causes of current inequality.
Methods used in this brief
Ireland and the European Union
Exploring the history of the EU, its institutions, and how EU membership impacts daily life in Ireland.
8 methodologies
Environmental Sustainability and Climate Action
Analyzing the global climate crisis and the actions required at local, national, and international levels.
8 methodologies