Enrichment programme
GEMS Wellington Academy — Silicon Oasis, Dubai
What do they do differently?
Students are given ‘ownership’ of their learning. Giving students choice over what, when, where and how they learn is a key feature of this innovative approach. Throughout the 12-week unit, the students can choose which specialist teachers they wish to meet with to support them in their learning.
The school also seeks the expertise of specialists from industry, businesses, and entrepreneurs from various fields who can support students in their learning. Links to real-world case studies or problems allow students to apply their learning beyond the classroom. Learning also takes place beyond the traditional classroom in spaces such as the ‘Blended Learning Plaza’, an open-plan design and layout of space suited to support collaboration and inquiry driven learning.
How does this help?
The model means students are engaged in interdisciplinary inquiries which are further supported through the use of digital technology. Classrooms teachers can monitor the progress of students weekly through their learning journals, which are kept online using Microsoft OneNote.
“The role of the teacher in this process changes from content deliverer to a facilitator of deep inquiry-driven learning,” said Elizabeth Stanley, secondary principal of the UK curriculum school.
Student learning is made visible through an exhibition at the end of the project to showcase the outcome of their learning.
“The key outcome for students is not just a finished exhibition product, but also the acquisition and development of 21st-century skills including communication, collaboration, problem solving, critical thinking and inquiry.”