Simulating Elections

Organisation piloting the Good Practice

Secondary School Center Hadžići

Country

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Description of the good practice

The “Simulating Elections” activity was aimed at students with developmental disabilities, providing them with the opportunity to understand the basic principles of democratic elections. During the activity, students were introduced to the process of creating electoral lists, learned who is eligible to vote, how voting is conducted, and the role of the ballot box. Students participated in a simulation of the election process, which helped them understand the basics of the political system and the importance of their participation in society.

Background

The purpose of this activity was to enable students with developmental disabilities to learn about the basic principles of the political system and the importance of democratic processes. Through this activity, students gained fundamental knowledge about elections, who can vote, the process of voting, and how elections are organized. It also gave them the opportunity to practice an important life skill – making decisions and participating in social processes.

Goal: To educate students with developmental disabilities about the basics of the political system, the electoral process, and the importance of their participation in society.

Problem to solve: This practice was introduced to give students an understanding of the political system, as they often lack opportunities to learn about democratic processes and their role in society.

Steps to take if you want to implement the good practice from planning to execution and evaluation if included

1. Planning

  • Prepare materials for simulating elections, including electoral lists, voting ballots.
  • Organize the space to create a safe environment for students to engage in the simulation.
  • Develop and present basic information about the electoral process, the rights of voters, and the rules of voting.

2. Execution

  • Explain to students the process of creating an electoral list and the rights of citizens to vote.
  • Organize the election simulation, where students can choose from the available candidates.
  • Students cast their votes using the ballot box, following the voting procedure.

3. Evaluation

  • Engage in discussions with students to assess their understanding of the election process.
  • Evaluate how well students understood the importance of democratic processes and their role in society.
  • Discuss how the students felt during the activity as “voters” and what they learned from it.

Target group/s of the practice

Primary target group: Students with developmental disabilities who participated in the election simulation.

Secondary target group: Teachers and assistants who supported the students during the simulation.

Number of students involved

10–15 students with developmental disabilities who participated in the election simulation

Benefits, impact on the students and learning outcomes

Benefits for students:

  • Gaining an understanding of the basics of the political system and democratic principles.
  • Increased awareness of the importance of participating in social processes and making decisions.
  • Learning about the rights and responsibilities of voters.

Impact on learning outcomes:

  • Improved ability to make well-considered decisions.
  • Development of social and cognitive skills related to political participation.
  • Strengthened sense of responsibility and civic awareness.

Suggestions for future users of this good practice

  • Provide clear and simple instructions to help students follow the election process.
  • Include visual materials to aid students in understanding the electoral process.
  • Consider organizing such activities as regular simulations to deepen students’ understanding and skills.
  • Encourage active participation and decision-making, helping students develop a sense of responsibility.

Other languages

Albania – Bosnia and Herzegovina – Kosovo – Montenegro

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