Message from Head of College: Our Focus on Activating Thinking
David Ingram
Founding Head of College said,
I'm excited to share our focus on activating thinking, a crucial aspect of our educational approach at Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi.
Activating Thinking
is about engaging students' minds actively in the learning process, encouraging them to think critically, creatively, and independently - key elements for success in the 21st century.
Understanding Activating Thinking
Activating thinking involves several key components:
01 Broadening knowledge and understanding
We encourage students to expand their horizons and explore diverse subjects.
02 Reinforcing through practice
Regular application of learned concepts helps solidify understanding.
03 Responding to feedback
Students learn to reflect on and incorporate constructive feedback.
04 Developing metacognition
We foster self-awareness of one's thought processes.
05 Encouraging higher-order thinking
Students are challenged to analyse, evaluate, and create.
06 Promoting transfer of learning
We emphasise applying knowledge across different contexts.
Supporting Activating Thinking in School Life
Formative Assessment in Class
Our commitment to activating thinking begins in the classroom. Through formative assessments, our teachers create an environment that stimulates active engagement and critical thinking. The quality of questioning and feedback I've observed during recent classroom visits has been particularly impressive. This approach ensures that each student receives the right level of challenge and support, creating the perfect conditions for activating thinking.
Co-Curricular Programme
This week marked the start of our diverse Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs), ranging from cooking to coding and sports to virtual reality. These activities play a crucial role in supporting both wellbeing and academic achievement. CCAs reinforce key 'activating thinking' skills by:
- Broadening students' knowledge and understanding across various disciplines
- Providing opportunities for practice and skill reinforcement
- Offering valuable feedback in non-traditional learning environments
Senior School Electives
Our Senior School Electives programme, inspired by the 'Free Learning' concept at Dulwich College in London, exemplifies our commitment to activating thinking. This initiative allows students to delve deeper into their academic passions beyond the standard exam syllabus. From exploring John Locke Essay focusing on economics to participating in the Crest Science Award, and from creating Manga Art to competing in National History Day, these electives encourage students to take ownership of their learning. The programme's emphasis on independent research, critical analysis, and creative expression aligns perfectly with the principles of activating thinking. Students are challenged to elevate their learning to higher levels, developing skills that are invaluable for their future academic and professional pursuits.
During his recent visit, Dr. Cameron Pyke, Deputy Master of Dulwich College in London, endorsed this initiative, recognising its potential to provide our students with unique and compelling personal stories for their university applications. This external validation reinforces our belief in the power of activating thinking to prepare our students for success in higher education and beyond.
By integrating these elements into our school life, we are creating an environment where activating thinking is not just a concept, but a lived experience for every student.
