The Future of Education
Interculturality(ies) and Historical Consciousness: Theory, Research, and Educational Practices in Portugal
Filipe Oliveira, University of Minho (Portugal)
Abstract
This study aims to explore the historical-social consciousness in the historical narratives of teachers
and students of History in Portuguese schools, in light of intercultural challenges. The debate on
human dignity, within the context of an intercultural dialogue, has been redefined by emerging
issues, which are discussed from a didactic perspective and the need for a "new humanism,"
promoted by Historical Education. The research seeks to map and discuss ideas and pedagogical
and social practices related to the concepts of Human Dignity, New Humanism, Interculturality,
Historical Consciousness, and Teacher Training, with the aim of fostering critical thinking in
curriculum and pedagogical decision-making, promoting educational practices aligned with the
shared conceptual framework.
Interculturality has gained increasing priority in public debate due to the accelerated population
mobility caused by globalization, revealing different forms of historical consciousness and identity.
Cultural diversity in Portuguese schools demands the adaptation of the curriculum to an inclusive
and equitable reality. The role of the teacher is crucial for the success of inclusion. The methodology
adopted is qualitative, descriptive, and interpretative, based on Grounded Theory.
Preliminary results indicate that while some schools promote intercultural pedagogical practices,
others face challenges, such as lack of training or resistance to such practices. Teacher training,
focused on the "new humanism," proves essential for developing a critical and inclusive historical
consciousness. Global mobility and globalization significantly influence students' identities and their
historical consciousness.
The contribution of this research to the present lies in its ability to critically reflect on how Historical
Education can respond to contemporary intercultural challenges, offering proposals that favor a
more inclusive and plural approach to the construction of students' historical consciousness,
preparing them for an increasingly globalized and diverse world.
Keywords: Historical Consciousness, Human Dignity, Interculturality, New Humanism.
