EXPLORING EXCLUSIVE SUBJECTS AT VINSCHOOL (PART 2): GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP EDUCATION (GCED)

Global Citizenship Education (GCED) is one of the three unique subjects available only at Vinschool, aiming to equip students with the knowledge, skills and qualities to become global citizens in the new era, aiming towards building a better, fairer and more peaceful world. In this article, we will learn about the highlights of GCED and the factors making GCED a favourite subject, helping students to be proactive in cognitive development, skills and comprehensive thinking.

What is GCED and its benefits?

Developed based on the principles of global citizenship of CIS and the Global Citizenship Education models of Oxfam and UNESCO, GCED is taught to students from Grades 1 to 12 throughout Vinschool. GCED provides students with knowledge and skills beyond the regular curriculum. Through this subject, students are equipped with deep knowledge of global issues such as climate change, gender equality, sustainable development and peace. Students also understand the importance of building a united global community where people live and work together.

GCED also helps students develop important qualities such as critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, and effective communication. Through participation in practical activities and group discussions, students practice teamwork, listening and expressing their opinions constructively. Furthermore, GCED encourages students to become confident, caring and socially responsible individuals who can adapt and work with others from different cultures and countries.

With GCED, students are not only given access to knowledge about international affairs but are also encouraged to unleash their potential and become future leaders. Students learn to build both similar and diverse relationships, respecting the opinions and values of others. Through involvement in practical activities, students are encouraged to confidently express ideas and contribute to solving social problems, putting themselves in the position of others to empathize and offer assistance.

GCED provides students with multi-dimensional and practical experiences, from participation in social projects to cultural and international exchange. This helps students explore the world around them, become aware of global issues, and develop pride for their home country and culture. GCED encourages confidence, creativity and social responsibility, helping students to confidently stand up, participate in social activities and contribute to the development of the community.

Another important benefit of GCED is its ability to develop global thinking and cross-cultural awareness. Students are encouraged to learn and understand the values, concepts, and facts from different cultures. This helps students become sensitive and flexible in the face of diversity and changes in society. GCED provides students with the tools to resolve conflicts, build peace and contribute to the creation of multicultural and harmonious living environments.

GCED helps students develop essential qualities such as critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving and effective communication

What is special about Global Citizenship Education?

A variety of teaching methods is used in teaching GCED at Vinschool to develop maximum skills and awareness for students. In particular, the method of “service learning ” is one of the main forms of learning. Throughout the learning process, students will always reflect on the knowledge they have acquired and the impact they can create on the community, and have the opportunity to implement personal projects to solve real local problems such as environmental protection, water saving, climate change, and quality education. As a result, students can raise awareness and will strive to encourage support and cooperation from the community in the future.

The GCED program is divided into three main phases: “Learn – Action – Reflection”, covered throughout the school year. The stages are balanced between providing foundational knowledge and guiding students through individual projects, then reflecting on the effectiveness and proposing improvements after project implementation.

At the primary school level, students are acquainted with a few current social and environmental problems, thereby taking actions to raise community awareness such as conserving clean water, maintaining personal health, and protecting animals and plants. For high school students, they will learn more about the causes and factors of global issues, then ask relevant questions to develop their projects, or promote activities calling for change in the community. Topics for high school students include poverty, climate change, gender inequality, and quality education for the community.

“GCED provides students with an ideal learning environment to gain knowledge from practical experiences, bridge the gap between classroom learning and the application of theory to real life, and train their attitudes, understanding and skills to become well-rounded individuals in the future. With the support of experienced teachers, students will be guided and accompanied throughout the learning process, flexibly applying advanced learning methods to develop self-control and build their capacity,” said Mr. Nguyen Quoc Khanh, GCED Coordinator at Vinschool.

Studying GCED, students will learn about major global issues such as protecting and saving clean water, climate change, gender inequality, and quality education for the community.

 What should students pay attention to in order to excel at Global Citizenship Education?

To do well in Global Citizenship Education, students should take note of the following:

• Independent research for in-depth understanding of global issues: In class, students will be provided with basic knowledge and an overview of the issues. However, for better understanding, students should educate themselves and further explore other aspects to expand their knowledge and interest.
• Self-initiative to create change: Students should actively participate in projects and activities in the community, identify their own issues of interest and find possible solutions.
• Raise awareness and call to action: An individual cannot solve global problems alone but needs cooperation and support from others. Students need to contribute by calling for support and increasing awareness in the community.

At Vinschool, students are developed in a holistic learning environment to become global citizens while maintaining a Vietnamese mindset and cultural identity. Global Citizenship helps students understand important issues in Vietnam and around the world, thereby developing the skills and qualities needed to become pioneers of the future.

Parents can contact for specific advice about the curriculum at Vinschool via email at [email protected] or by phone number via 18006511 (select language and press extension 1).