Under the proposal to revamp the transition year at secondary level, teenagers will receive instruction on how to develop and engage empathy, both in face-to-face interactions and on digital platforms. The concept arose from a study conducted by University of Galway, which utilised an empathy activation scheme for 1,600 students across 25 Irish secondary schools. Notably, the programme had the backing of actor Cillian Murphy and resulted in a significant increase in the level of understanding and care for others.
Professor Pat Dolan, the Unesco chair in children, youth and civic engagement at University of Galway, stated that the government’s advisory body on education will utilise these results to guide the redesign of the transition year programme aimed at 15- and 16-year-olds. This redesign is scheduled for public discussion in the near future.
Prof. Dolan emphasised the importance of empathy in education, arguing it to be as vital as traditional subjects like maths, languages, or science. He stated that despite the growing pressures on schools, instilling empathy among the youth remains a critical task.
In the face of increasing instances of cyberbullying, racism, and homophobia amongst teenagers in Ireland, Prof. Dolan highlighted research showing that nurturing empathy could be the key to decreasing bullying, fostering understanding, and improving social cohesion.
He indicated recent findings show empathy levels are dropping amongst the younger generations. In contrast, there’s a noticeable rise in apathy and individualism. Prof. Dolan asserted that teaching empathy is not enough; the real difficulty lies in prompting the teenagers to actively practise empathy.
He pointed out those who learn and apply empathy not only improve their grades but also improve their overall well-being. Prof. Dolan believes this could potentially facilitate a young person’s transition from school to society, developing a more understanding, selfless, and generous disposition in them.
For over a decade, Prof. Dolan collaborated with Murphy based on their mutual interest in the contribution empathy and emotional and social learning can make in helping young individuals cultivate social connectivity.
Murphy highlighted the fundamental value of empathy for an actor and credited his association with the Unesco centre at University of Galway for recognising the importance of providing young people with the chance to learn about the place and value of empathy.
In 2022, Murphy and Dolan curated Ionbhá: The Empathy Book For Ireland. This engaging novel contains the contemplations of several notable individuals and everyday people on the topic of empathy.
Concurrently, transitional year education is undergoing a holistic makeover as part of the more comprehensive senior cycle reform. This redesign aims to focus more on personal and academic growth, offering the students numerous opportunities to improve their project work capabilities, life skills, relationship management, and overall wellbeing.
In a separate event, Prof Dolan is lined up for recognition from the Maria Grzegorzewska University in Warsaw, honouring him for his lifetime contribution to children’s rights.
Praising Dolan’s enduring commitment to children’s rights, Professor Ciaran Ó hÓgartaigh, the President of the University of Galway, acknowledged Dolan’s innovative methodologies in research and distinct approach in working to benefit young individuals.
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