Advice for policy makers, based on our findings
- Policymakers should focus on embedding values like kindness (benevolence); fairness (universalism); curiosity, independence and creativity (self-direction) into the curriculum. These values help children develop socially and intellectually.
- Policies should also allow schools the flexibility to adapt values-education to reflect the cultural and social realities of their communities.
- In times of societal upheaval, such as during a pandemic, policies should provide guidance on balancing immediate needs for stability with long-term goals like creativity and fairness.
- Providing professional development opportunities and resources for values education can help schools and teachers better implement these goals.