Learning in Progress: Utilizing ‘Time’ and ‘Curriculum’ to Enhance Learning Experience of Students

By Mr. Muhieddine Soubra – Principal of International School of Arts and Science (ISAS)

When I reflect on my days as a school student, I realize that much has changed in the education landscape across the world. The curriculum and pedagogy had little room for flexibility, and we absorbed our lessons without engaging with the education process.  The trend, now, is that of participative learning. Students play a greater role in determining the elements of a curriculum, thereby helping the school and educators build a robust culture of shared learning.

With transformations in the education sector comes the challenge to be deft in adapting to these changes. As educators, it is imperative that we respond to these changes with enhanced learning opportunities for students at the heart of all efforts. 

One of the dominant trends today, both across the globe and in the United Arab Emirates, is the blend of technology and education.  This fusion strengthens the teaching resources available at the disposal of teachers, and facilitates greater interaction with students by employing tools that they use on a daily basis. New ways of designing a classroom environment are also emerging, along with the need to supplement theoretical learning with practical, hands-on experiences.  

Another domain explored to gauge changes in education is the concept of ‘time’. Recently, people discussed with great enthusiasm the news of ‘six-hour work day’ in Sweden. Organizations that opted for shorter timings claimed that it increased productivity amongst workers, and gave them greater flexibility to indulge in activities that improved overall well-being. Time will judge the effectiveness of this approach, but at present, ‘time’ itself is an element that harbors potential to improve learning experience in school.

At the International School of Arts and Sciences (ISAS), the new academic year brought with it change in timings – the first school in the country to do so. Students will now begin classes at 8:30 am instead of 7:50 am. The window of 40 odd minutes is an opportunity for students and staff to re-orient their day. The advantages are many, such as – it allows students to beat peak morning rush hours and arrive school on time. It also helps teachers prepare their teaching plans with more focus. 

Curriculum is a crucial arena in a student’s academic life. As students grow up in a world that is constantly evolving, the curriculum must adapt to new realities to ensure that novel ideas flourish within the pedagogical framework. Teaching new languages, for instance, sharpens cognition in students and imparts an important life skill. A cosmopolitan city like Dubai offers the right environment to foster learning of new languages. 

ISAS recognized this early, and after an evaluation of languages that would be most useful in a student’s life, incorporated French and Mandarin into the curriculum. The new academic year has witnessed a shift in gear, demonstrating our commitment towards a holistic approach to the curriculum.  With the belief that seeds of innovative thought must be sown early, ISAS will teach a new course to students of Grade 1, titled ‘Innovation and Technology’. This course will deepen their understanding of Applied Science, Math, Technology and Art. This is also in line with the vision of UAE and Dubai to build a culture that promotes innovation and technology at the forefront of societal and economic progress. This further bolsters our vision to empower students, and ingrain the philosophy and expertise of innovation in them. This will spur their growth towards becoming responsible and critical thinkers who are ready to adapt to changes. 

While new changes provide the required impetus at the turn of a new academic year, it is important that they are in line with student needs and expectations. Both decisions at ISAS – new timings and the addition of a course - comes at the backdrop of careful analysis, planning and feedback from students and parents. This is reflective of the 21st Century, participative learning culture that is driving changes in education.

The future holds an exciting journey for policy makers in the education sector, educators of all generations, and most importantly, the future of our country - students.  Just as I look back fondly at my school days, I look forward to collaborating with like-minded individuals and organizations that help students hone their passions and find their unique roles in the world. In this constantly evolving sphere, we as educators must adorn the student’s hat, and see every new change as ‘learning in progress’.  

About International School of Arts & Science (ISAS):

The International School of Arts and Sciences provides a co-educational, international, English language-learning environment for students from KG to 12th grade. ISAS is managed by academia management solutions international - AMSI. The school implements a twelve-year American program based on a core curriculum that encourages students to recognize their potential in both the arts and sciences. It aims to provide a school environment where children feel secure, are involved and excited by their learning. The core curriculum ensures that all students develop a strong foundation, whereas the elective courses are designed to expand and enhance student knowledge and interest in major fields such as Engineering, Medicine, Business, Art and Music. 

About Academia Management Solutions International (AMSI):
A collaboration of academicians and educators, Academia Management Solutions International (AMSI) is a complete solution provider. AMSI caters to every genre of educational institutions and at all levels of the academic delivery process. AMSI manages Al Mawakeb Schools in Al Barsha and Al Garhoud - Dubai, The International School of Arts & Sciences (ISAS) in Al Warqaa - Dubai, and International School of Al-Koura – Lebanon. AMSI has the credit of owning one of the oldest private schools and one of the premier educational institutions in Dubai - Al Mawakeb School.