Today’s primary education has two main areas of focus—students’ dispositions and whole child development
Learning skills in the 21st century focus on fostering dispositions to equip children with the tools for success in rapidly changing times. More than half the children entering primary school today will work in jobs that do not yet exist.
The focus is less on knowledge and memorisation, and more on character development including creativity, collaboration, problem-solving, flexibility and resilience. Children’s competencies rather than learning outcomes are prioritised.
Anxiety and stress are on the rise among children. The pressure on them to achieve high levels of academic success is negatively affecting their well-being. In schools, the focus once again is on whole child development. The latest research in brain development shows that social-emotional learning is inextricably linked with academic learning.
See also: The Best International Schools In Hong Kong
Creating school environments that balance social-emotional development, growth mindsets and academic skills prepares students more successfully for school and life. On the next spread are the top 10 trends that are helping to improve primary learning.
1. Play: The key to healthy development
Primary education continues to emphasise the importance of play-based learning as an essential and effective teaching approach. During play the child is problem-solving, creating new things, working with others and building an understanding of the world. Research shows learning through play enhances students’ academic, social-emotional and learning outcomes.
In addition, play supports positive learning attitudes including imagination, curiosity, enthusiasm and persistence. These attitudes are harder to develop through traditional, rote learning approaches. Play-based learning supports the development of competent learners, able to work with others, face challenges and create solutions.
See also: 10 Best Boarding Schools In The US