
2 November 1938, Cieszyn, Zaolzie.
Crossing of the frontier bridge near Cieszyn castle.
A postcard issued in November 1938.
Photo: courtesy of Władysław Owczarzy, KARTA Centre collection
In The Project Method William H. Kilpatrick proposed a teaching method which emphasize the role of self-education based on the common realization of a task initiated by the teacher. The idea of the "project method" can also be useful in historical education. Here we publish some educational projects in which pupils try to interpret the experience of 20th century totalitarian regimes. They use in their activities many tools and solutions that challenge the standard model of school education.
Last added projects


In the learning module, the concept of “learning for Human Rights”, or in this case “Children’s Rights” is brought into focus. The students get to know the Geneva Declaration of the Rights of a Child and the UNCRC. As Eckmann states in her article, it is difficult to learn how to prevent the violation of human rights within Holocaust Education, but the author hopes this learning module will lead towards an attitude of taking actions against the violations of children’s rights. Therefore it is also necessary to teach “within Human Rights”, so the learning module combines the visit of a memorial, active methods and group work.

The Learning Module cosist of 3 interactive lessons about the history of DP camps and a guided tour to memorial place and exhibition of Museum in Bergen-Belsen conected to discussions on feelings after visit of memorial place and topics related to the question of history of DP camps which are prepared by the students in advance.

History of childhood in Stalin’s times and history of children’s rights are equally important for this educational module and allow to see the process of recognition of children as an object of protection against abuse, as a historical subject. History of childhood is interesting and emotionally appealing for young people. It is a great framework for them to see a historical epoch through the eyes of his or her peers and understand that childhood is an inherently valued period of life – not just preparation for adulthood.