Narrativität und narrative Kompetenz im Geschichtsunterricht

In his essay, Tobias Jakobi provides an overview over the theoretical concept of narrativity and argues that this approach can significantly improve the practice of teaching history. After contrasting historical narratives (histories) from fictional narratives (stories), the essay shows how a narrativistic and constructivist approach to teaching history can increase active participation in class. Furthermore, the author explains how discussing the validity of a line of historical argumentation prepares students to participate in a democratic society characterised by plurality and controversial debates. Finally, it is stated that, individual and collective histories written by the students from their point of view, rather than master narratives, should be featured in narrativistic and constructivist lessons. This can also help students to develop awareness of their society’s history and participate in the public discourse about what the past means to us now.