Democratic Education Network
Throughout my years as an educator, I have consistently embraced empathetic pedagogical methods at the core of my teaching philosophy. These methods are designed to provide students with the opportunity to integrate their own unique life experiences into their learning, creating a bridge to the global community that is both personal and deeply meaningful. Throughout my career, I have taken the lead on various projects that have connected students with local communities and international partners, offering them real-world experiences that enrich their learning journey.
In 2012, despite financial constraints, I launched the International Community Project (ICP). The project aimed to establish essential connections with local communities and initially focused on creating sustainable systems. Over time, the ICP evolved into the Democratic Education Network (DEN), which became operational in 2016. This network was established to enhance students’ educational experience by promoting compassion, collaboration, and relevance.The core philosophy of DEN emphasises the development of a close-knit community among students, facilitated by dedicated teachers who encourage mutual support and cooperation. The network strongly emphasises democratic principles and innovative educational practices. It consistently explores and implements pioneering teaching methods while actively promoting the pursuit of knowledge and intellectual growth.
Over the years, DEN has become an indispensable and dynamic centre for fostering student engagement at the University of Westminster. It serves as a vibrant platform for exchanging knowledge, actively participating in the university’s curriculum activities and contributing to developing future leaders on both local and global scales. The network is actively hosting various workshops, conferences, and immersive field trips spanning various locations such as Georgia, Turkey, Vietnam, Thailand, Peru and the USA. Through these carefully curated activities, students are encouraged to develop a broader perspective on global issues and to become active, engaged members of the global community..
