Exploring Traditional Romanian Winter Celebrations in the Context of the Technological Education School Subject

Abstract

The Technology Education course provides a conducive educational framework for promoting Romanian cultural heritage, particularly winter holidays and customs, through practical, creative, and hands-on activities. The integration of traditions
such as caroling, uratul, Plugușorul, Malanca, Capra, or the crafting of seasonal objects (masks, costumes, ornaments, traditional
decorations) contributes to the development of students’ key competencies in an interdisciplinary and contextualized manner.
This methodological study highlights concrete ways to incorporate Romanian winter holidays into Technology Education classes, with an emphasis on customs practiced in the Republic of Moldova. The proposed activities combine elements of design, manual work, material reuse, adherence to technological steps, and teamwork, stimulating students’ creativity, practical spirit, and sense of responsibility. At the same time, they foster the development of social and civic competencies by promoting cooperation, communication, and respect for local cultural values. By approaching winter traditions as an educational resource, students strengthen their cultural identity, develop their artistic sensibility, and learn to appreciate the importance of preserving and passing on intangible heritage. The study highlights the role of technology education in fostering an active and conscious attitude toward national traditions, demonstrating that these can be effectively integrated into the instructional-educational process, adapted to modern curriculum requirements.