Citizenship Education, Democratic School Culture, and Digital Transformation in Primary Schools

Abstract

This research investigates citizenship education, democratic school culture, and digital citizenship in primary schools amidst 21st-century technological shifts. Employing document analysis and a systematic literature review (2015-2025), this study critically examines policy reforms in Türkiye and the impact of terminating the "School Councils Project" in 2019. The findings reveal structural contradictions between formal "active citizen" goals and hierarchical school structures, with teacher attitudes significantly influencing classroom democracy despite prevalent autocratic tendencies. While perceptions of digital citizenship evolve through blended learning, parental involvement remains a decisive factor. The conclusion highlights that democratic competencies require a lived school culture rather than purely cognitive instruction. Recommendations include reviving student participation mechanisms, integrating digital ethics into core subjects, and reforming professional development to enhance democratic classroom management and awareness of the hidden curriculum.