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Engaging with the World: Real-Life Learning Experiences at WISS
The Western International School of Shanghai (WISS) prides itself on fostering a learning environment that connects academic theory to real-world applications. This philosophy is exemplified through various experiential learning opportunities, such as the recent experiential learning journey undertaken by Grade 12 Diploma Programme (DP) Psychology students to the Shanghai Chaole Psychological Counseling Clinic. This visit enriched their understanding of psychology and highlighted the cultural dimensions of mental health, demonstrating how WISS integrates transdisciplinary learning with practical experiences.
Immersive Learning Experience
During their visit to the clinic, students engaged directly with therapists and psychiatrists, gaining insights into how mental health issues are approached from an Eastern cultural perspective. This firsthand experience allowed them to explore significant differences in diagnosis and treatment methods between Eastern and Western practices. By observing professionals in action, students could connect theoretical knowledge gained in the classroom with real-life scenarios, reinforcing their understanding of complex psychological concepts.
Cultural Context in Mental Health
The clinic visit provided a unique opportunity for students to delve into the cultural dimensions of mental health care. They learned that cultural values significantly influence how mental health issues are perceived and treated. For instance, while Western approaches often emphasize individualism and medical interventions, Eastern practices may incorporate holistic and community-based strategies. This exploration of cultural differences broadened their academic understanding and fostered critical thinking about how societal factors shape mental health care.
Addressing Biases and Barriers
One of the key takeaways from the field trip was an awareness of the biases and barriers individuals may face within the mental health system. Students learned about the stigma associated with mental health issues in various cultures and how these barriers can prevent individuals from seeking help. By discussing these challenges with professionals, students developed a more nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in mental health care. This aspect of their learning aligns with WISS's commitment to developing empathetic global citizens who can navigate diverse cultural contexts.
Empathy Through Experience
The experiential learning journey was invaluable in fostering empathy among students. By engaging with mental health professionals and understanding their treatment approaches, students were encouraged to consider multiple perspectives when addressing psychological issues. This experiential learning aligns with the International Baccalaureate (IB) philosophy, which emphasizes transdisciplinary education and promotes personal growth through real-world connections.
Bridging Theory and Practice
WISS's approach to education transcends traditional classroom learning by integrating real-life experiences into the curriculum. The IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) encourages students to engage in transdisciplinary projects that require them to apply their knowledge to tangible situations. The experiential learning journey illuminates this approach by allowing students to witness the practical application of psychological theories in a professional setting.
Through such experiences, WISS prepares its students for academic success and meaningful contributions to society. The emphasis on experiential learning equips them with critical life skills necessary for navigating an increasingly interconnected world.
Students could bridge theoretical knowledge with practical insights by immersing themselves in a professional environment and exploring the cultural dimensions of mental health. This experience reinforced their understanding of psychology and fostered empathy and critical thinking skills essential for addressing complex global issues.
As WISS continues to implement transdisciplinary learning strategies, it remains committed to developing well-rounded individuals prepared to tackle challenges in diverse cultural contexts. Through such initiatives, WISS exemplifies its dedication to providing a holistic education that empowers students to become compassionate global citizens equipped for success in their future endeavors.
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WESTERN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF SHANGHAI
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Shanghai, PRC, 201702
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WESTERN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF SHANGHAI
555 Lian Min Road, Xujing Town, Qing Pu District,
Shanghai, PRC, 201702
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拥抱多样性： 全球创新学习联盟会议在新西兰奥克兰举行
全球创新学习联盟（GAIL）是一个著名的学校网络，致力于促进教育领域的创新、合作和文化交流。 上海西华外籍人员子女学校（WISS）很荣幸成为全球创新学习联盟（GAIL）的成员，并兴奋地宣布将参加即将在新西兰奥克兰举行的全球创新学习联盟会议。此次会议为上海西方国际学校的学生提供了一次难得的机会，他们将在校长 David Edwards 先生、学术与创新部主任 Timothy Pyeon 先生和设计教师 Nwanneka Okwuosa 女士的陪同下，与其他 GAIL 成员学校共同促进多元化发展。
在中断四年之后，GAIL 会议将在新西兰奥克兰汇聚来自全球各地的教育工作者、管理人员和学生。今年的会议将特别关注多样性，承认多样性为教育机构带来的巨大价值。接受多元化观点、文化和思想的重要性无论怎样强调都不为过，GAIL 的目标是增强教育工作者创造包容性学习环境的能力。
WISS 始终站在倡导多元化和培养学生全球思维的最前沿。学校曾在 2019 年主办过 GAIL 会议，因此对这一活动的意义并不陌生。在 David Edwards、Timothy Pyeon 和 Nwanneka Okwuosa 等主要代表的陪同下，WISS 的学生将有宝贵的机会与来自其他 GAIL 成员学校的同学合作、学习和分享自己的独特经历。
本次会议的主要关注点是多样性，与会者可以期待一个深入探讨文化、种族、语言和社会多样性各个层面的丰富活动。研讨会、小组讨论和互动环节将为与会者提供在自己的学校创建包容性环境所需的工具和知识。会议旨在培养跨文化能力，弘扬学生和教育工作者的不同文化背景。
GAIL 会议之所以如此具有影响力，其中一个关键因素是它强调合作。与会者有机会参与合作项目，交流促进多样性和包容性的想法和最佳做法。通过这些互动，与会者将获得宝贵的见解和创新策略，并将其应用于各自的学校社区。
对于 WISS 的学生和更广泛的 GAIL 社区来说，在新西兰奥克兰举行的 GAIL 会议将是一次难忘的活动。当他们沉浸在一个多元、包容的环境中时，与会者将学到关于同理心、尊重和文化交流之美的宝贵经验。这次会议无疑将成为通过教育创造一个更加和谐和宽容的社会的垫脚石。
在即将于新西兰奥克兰举行的会议期间，WISS 与其他 GAIL 成员学校一道，热切希望为有关多样性的讨论做出贡献。通过参与此次全球对话，学校重申了其促进文化理解、拥抱多样性和推动教育创新的承诺。毫无疑问，GAIL 会议将成为积极变革的催化剂，教育工作者和学生将通力合作，共同建设一个重视和赞美我们丰富差异的未来。
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