The HWC offers philosophy as a final exam subject at havo and vwo levels; so why not – as a subject – also at vmbo level? That was the idea behind the proposal to also design a module for vmbo where pupils are introduced to the subject of philosophy and can develop philosophical skills.
From the basic skills subsidy, there was room to actually implement the plan. Teachers Jip Maat and Annemarieke Roelvink have created a programme together, combining philosophical skills and content with citizenship goals. This resulted in a lesson programme that addresses argumentation, coexistence, freedom and power, but also friendship, solidarity and conspiracy theories. Whereas social studies (maatschappijleer) focuses more on knowledge of Dutch society and politics, philosophy places more emphasis on critical thinking, dialogue, and the examination of values and assumptions.
Monday, 26th January was the day. The first philosophy lesson for vmbo-t 3 at HWC! We challenged the pupils to think by letting them give their opinion on various questions and statements, such as: Should you be kind to someone you don't know? Do social media show who you really are?
The most fun part is asking follow-up questions: but why do you think that? That leads to some lovely answers. We also worked on assumptions: be careful what you answer to a question that contains an assumption! For example, if you say “no” to the question, Do you still hit your brother? What does that mean then? That you used to hit him but don't anymore? Or that you don't have a brother? Or that you have never hit your brother? It’s better to first ask what the person means by their question!
Another topic is freedom and living together: What would our society look like without rules? What would happen then? And what would you do if you had a ring that made you invisible? No one could see what you were doing or where you were. And what do you think someone else would do with such a ring?
Not only are questions important, but so are answers: what is a well-argued answer? We try to look beyond what you initially think about something. We also practice taking on other perspectives during lessons.
