Animated films in the classroom: Studio Ghibli as an educational tool
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58265/pulso.7757Keywords:
Film Based Learning, Studio Ghibli, Educational Innovation, Educational Values, Primary EducationAbstract
This study introduces Film‑Based Learning (FBL), an emerging methodology that harnesses the pedagogical potential of animated films to enrich primary education. Building on Project‑Based Learning (PBL), FBL integrates curricular content with Studio Ghibli movies— renowned for their artistic quality and for promoting universal values such as gender equality and social responsibility. Implemented across all primary grades in a Madrid school, the convergent mixed‑methods design combined interviews with nine teachers and analysis of students’ reflections and work. A five‑dimension rubric guided film selection according to educational relevance and appropriateness. Results show that FBL effectively fostered critical thinking, creativity and transversal competencies such as media literacy and cultural awareness. Teachers positively rated the increased student engagement and the meaningful discussions that connected abstract concepts with real‑world contexts. This study provides a practical framework, aligned with Spain’s Royal Decree 157/2022, and suggests avenues for evaluating its applicability in other settings.
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