Webinar: Contested histories and monuments in teacher training

The Monument(al) Challenges webinar series is designed to equip educators with the skills and resources needed to navigate sensitive and complex histories in the classroom. Collaboratively implemented with Monument(al) Challenges‘ Consortium members and the Contested Histories Initiative, this webinar series is part of a broader project that aims to address the evolving challenges faced by history teachers across Europe, particularly in discussions surrounding contested cultural heritage.

This series will consist of four webinars, running between October and December (see dates and times below). It is intended for secondary education teachers and history professionals, though others are welcome to join. The webinars will offer practical insights and hands-on activities designed to help teachers address topics such as authoritarianism, colonialism, fascism, slavery, and contested legacies in a diverse classroom setting.

In each episode, participants will:

• Gain insights into how historical heritage and identity are intertwined and the emotional impact these discussions can have on students and communities.
• Learn strategies to foster inclusivity in the classroom while addressing marginalisation and social injustices through history education.
• Explore a range of educational resources, including lesson plans, learning activities, and source collections, developed as part of the Monument(al) Challenges project.
• Build critical thinking skills in students, guiding them in evaluating evidence-based information on both traditional and social media platforms.
• Connect with a community of teachers, trainers, and researchers from across Europe, collaborating on best practices for teaching complex and sensitive histories.

By attending, participants not only enhance their teaching methods but also contribute to shaping the future of history education in Europe. Early access to the Monument(al) Challenges Toolkit and other resources will be provided, enabling educators to enrich their curriculum with ready-to-use, adaptable materials.

Be part of this important initiative and join us in advancing history education that reflects the complexities of our shared pasts!

Registration links and details of each webinar session can be found below and on euroclio.eu/eventpage.

The third webinar of the Monument(al) Challenges on November 27th, series will address how to approach monuments and contested histories in teacher training. For an overview of the Monument(al) Challenges webinar series, click here.

This session, we are thrilled to have Benny Christensen and Christoph Sproul presenting Confronting Memories’ valuable work. They will introduce key learning activities from the Pedagogical Guide – Teaching history through the use of World War II memorials, sharing practical insights on incorporating these resources into teacher training.

For more information, Contested histories and monuments in teacher training – EuroClio – Inspiring History and Citizenship Educators