Bagnacavallo, why this name? An educational journey starting from the archives

Abstract

The essay explores history education in Italy, stressing the need to move beyond a factual, transmissive approach -which often disengages students- toward active methodologies that place learners at the center of the process. It advocates integrating methodological and content-based strategies by designing learning paths that connect local and universal history, fostering curiosity and historical awareness. A concrete example of the educational project Bagnacavallo, perché questo nome?, which engages students with the town’s history and cultural heritage through accessible sources such as maps and legends. The project adopts a research-based, dialogical teaching model aligned with the New National Guidelines, promoting cultural heritage education and active citizenship. By encouraging students to explore their historical environment, the initiative enhances critical thinking and a sense of belonging. In an era of rapid change, the essay concludes by emphasizing the vital role of history education in developing informed, reflective and engaged citizens.