Welcome to DOCAT Projects

This blog is here to help support you as you work on your DOCAT projects. The blog has a section for each of the main project topics. Each section contains a mix of articles, statistics and videos to help you as you research your projects. Information will be added to these sections on a regular basis.

What is DOCAT? 

DOCAT is a book but also much more than a book. DOCAT is designed for young people to help them navigate the complexities of today's world. Every time we turn on the TV or look at social media we are blasted with images form around the world. We can tune into global events in a second. This is great but it can also leave us wondering how these events will impact on us and what we can do about it.What is Catholic Social Teaching? DOCAT is based on something called Catholic Social Teaching (CST). The Catholic church has always been at the forefront of improving social conditions for people through providing schools and educations, hospitals and healthcare as well as speaking out for those who are most in need. The Catholic Church began publishing documents relating to social issues during the industrial revolution and has continued to form world opinion ever since.

What are DOCAT Projects? 

In Ireland DOCAT Projects are unique to Rochestown College. The project programme was designed by Brother Martin alongside the DOCAT Foundation in Germany to enable students to engage with the social issues of their time such as the impact of homelessness, social media, mental health on society. The projects also offer students the opportunity to explore emerging issues such as the plight of migrants and refugees and evolving environmental concerns.

What's involved in DOCAT Projects?
DOCAT projects are team-based projects that not alone allow students engage with important social issues through a faith lens but also help them develop new skills such as:

• Project planning and time management

• Team building

• Leadership

• Critical thinking

• Reflective practice

• Presentation skills

• Public speaking

• Interpersonal skills

• Research skills

The projects run from September to May and take up three classes per week. There are five main stages: 

PlanDiscoverEngagePresentationReflection

Each of these stages are explained in more detail on the 'Project Planning & Guidelines' page.