Slovakia Multicultural Education - 8th Grade

The Slovak education system follows a two-level model consisting of state and school levels. The State Educational Programme (SEP) is the highest-level document, outlining the main principles and targets of education. The SEP defines educational areas, standards, and guidelines for various educational needs, including those of pupils with special educational needs, disabilities, and from minority language backgrounds. It also addresses cross-curricular themes, one of which is multicultural education.

The School Educational Programme (SchEP) is the key document at the school level, created in accordance with the SEP and legislation. It outlines the school's vision, goals, and focus, considering pupils' needs and regional possibilities.

The SEP divides education into seven key areas:

• Language and Communication: Includes Slovak language and literature, national minority languages (where applicable), and foreign languages.
• Mathematics and Work with Information: Develops mathematical thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to use information and communication technologies.
• Man and Nature: Emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach within science subjects.
• Man and Society: Focuses on active reflection on the past and present, promoting respect for democratic principles and preparing pupils for responsible citizenship.
• Man and Values: Aims to develop pupils' personalities, support the understanding of moral norms, and encourage behavior in accordance with these norms.
• Arts and Culture: Develops pupils' understanding of culture and art in the context of current social processes.
• Health and Exercise: Focuses on the importance of lifelong health care, healthy lifestyles, and physical activity.

In addition to these educational areas, the SEP includes cross-curricular topics that should be integrated into the educational process. These topics include:

• Personal and social development (including marriage and parenthood education)
• Environmental education
• Media education
• Multicultural education
• Protection of life and health

While the SEP mentions multicultural education as a cross-curricular theme, specific details about its implementation in the 8th-grade curriculum remain unavailable. The National Institute of Education and Youth (NIVAM) is responsible for developing the SEP and providing resources and training for teachers. Further research into NIVAM resources or contacting them directly might provide more specific information.