Building Peace Through Education: An Evaluation of Methods for Teaching Citizenship in Conflict Schools
Ahmad Fauzan

a) Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, Jl. Dr. Setiabudi No.229, Isola, Kec. Sukasari, Kota Bandung, Jawa Barat, Indonesia. 40154.
*ahmadfauzan18[at]unram.ac.id

Abstract

This research evaluates civic education teaching methods in schools located in conflict areas, focusing on the role of education in building peace. The main issue is how education can serve as a mechanism to reduce violence, foster tolerance, and resolve conflicts without violence in conflict-affected areas. Schools often experience significant challenges in conflict areas, including infrastructure disruption, declining enrollment, and disrupted learning environments. The research method used in this article is a qualitative approach with an in-depth literature study. Academic articles, government reports, and policy documents relevant to education and peace were analyzed. The results show that education is essential in peacebuilding, as it provides the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to resolve conflicts fairly and non-violently. Civic education, focusing on citizenship skills, democratic values, and active participation in society, also contributes to creating a culture of peace. In conflict areas, schools serve as a protection mechanism for children, providing psychological support and formal education. Challenges faced include damage to school infrastructure, psychological trauma to students and teachers, and a decline in the quality of education. Efforts to address these challenges include rebuilding infrastructure, providing psychological support, and creating a safe learning environment. Teachers play an important role in peace promotion in schools and must be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to teach peace education effectively. Policy interventions that support a conducive learning environment are also needed in conflict-affected schools.

Keywords: Peace Education, Civic Education, and Conflict Schools.

Topic: Global Citizenship and Multicultural Understanding