The primary objective of the "Roots of Disparity and Desire" (ROD) project was to cultivate consciousness and awareness among students (ages 13-16) regarding the origins of the current globalized world's inequalities. We aimed to develop a critical understanding of historical and systemic interdependencies that contribute to these disparities. By integrating a digital learning package, including an eLearning course and a blended learning concept with presence lesson concepts for teachers in the form of a handbook, the project sought to foster critical thinking and argumentation skills. This educational approach was designed to encourage students to engage actively in the discourse on migration and generally on inclusive societies. Ultimately, the project intended to empower students with the knowledge and skills necessary for civic engagement, promoting a deeper understanding of global fairness and the historical roots of inequality. This, we believed, would enable them to contribute meaningfully to discussions and actions addressing global disparities.
For the "Roots of Disparity and Desire" (ROD) Erasmus+ project, our application was driven by a critical need to enhance students' understanding of global inequalities through a historical and systemic perspective. Recognizing that traditional educational resources often focus on isolated issues without addressing their historical roots or systemic interdependencies, we identified a significant gap in global citizenship education. This project was conceived to fill that void by providing a comprehensive learning package that not only educates students about the genesis of our modern, globalized world's disparities but also motivates them to engage in social entrepreneurial activities aimed at creating more inclusive societies. Our ambition was to equip educators and students alike with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and address the complex issues of fairness and inequality, thus fostering a generation of informed and active global citizens. This need for a deeper, contextual understanding of global issues, coupled with the desire to promote civic engagement and critical thinking among students, propelled us to apply for the project, aiming to make a lasting impact on the educational landscape.