The Reflective Citizen : General Design Education for a Sustainable Future

Abstract

With the Norwegian 2006 curriculum, the thoughts of a global responsibility in terms of a wide understanding of sustainability was introduced in general education in Art and Design education from 1st grade through lower secondary school (6-15 years). The focus of individual expression that dominated the subject during the charismatic paradigm of self-expression has in the documents to some extent been replaced by the focus on citizenship and user participation. The introduction, or rather reintroduction of the concept of citizenship in the Norwegian Art and design subject, has lead to a revitalisation of the previously prized concept of the useful, seen as lasting everyday objects that can enhance the daily-life without disintegrating environmental, social or cultural values.