This paper will consider the relationship between engaged pedagogies and the development of what is referred to as independent skills, as well as active citizenship. The significance for their development in the context of the Irish teaching and learning context will be sketched, particularly at first and second level. In particular, the author will make reference to the Open Spaces for Dialogue and Enquiry Methodology (OSDE) which was developed at the Centre for the Study of Social and Global Justice (CSSGJ) at the University of Nottingham. The author's experience of engaging with this particular approach, especially as it pertains to the development of independent thinking skills and active citizenship will be discussed. It will involve a case study, as well as findings from a questionnaire that was distributed to the Open Spaces for Dialogue and Inquiry Network.