NOT JUST ANOTHER CONFERENCE!
It has become clear through talking to schools and education professionals that there is little requirement for another schools conference. What there is however is a need for a place where education professionals can come together to address the need to do things differently. A space where through engineered serendipity we can connect with like-minded educators to adapt teaching methodologies that suit the modern student in today’s classroom. The conference programme is carefully designed for the specific needs of Asia-Pacific based schools and will give participants actionable strategies to takeaway and implement in classrooms today.
Adaptive Learning
The Adaptive Learning stream at the Asia Pacific International Schools Conference explores the concept of adaptive learning, which has been present for many years but has recently been enhanced by technological advancements. The focus is on delivering customised learning experiences that cater to the unique needs of each individual learner, using just-in-time feedback, pathways, and resources. This approach moves away from the traditional one-size-fits-all model and empowers students to take control of their own learning. The stream examines the methods and pedagogies employed by international schools to ensure that adaptive learning is central to the student's educational journey. It covers a range of approaches, from cutting-edge AI-powered ideas to innovative twists on more traditional methods. Participants can expect to gain insights and practical strategies to implement in their classrooms.
In addition to adaptive learning, the stream also explores the concept of human-centric learning. This field of study delves into the cognitive processes involved in acquiring, processing, storing, and retrieving knowledge and skills. By understanding these processes, educators can design more effective learning experiences. The conference equips attendees with an in-depth understanding of the latest ideas in human-centric learning driven by technology, offering a glimpse into the future of education. The Adaptive Learning stream at the Asia Pacific International Schools Conference provides a platform for educators to immerse themselves in the fascinating world of personalised learning. Participants can expect to discover groundbreaking strategies and innovations that revolutionise the learning experience, ultimately leading to improved educational outcomes for students.
Critical Pedagogy
This Conference stream focuses on critical pedagogy, an instructional approach that challenges the status quo, empowers learners and promotes social justice. It acknowledges that education is not a neutral process but a political one that both reflects and shapes the values, beliefs, and interests of different societal groups. By employing critical pedagogy, teachers can foster critical thinking, dialogue, and action among students.
During this stream, we will closely examine how schools and teachers can adapt their practices to create a space for dialogue and feedback in the classroom. This approach empowers students to question, analyse, and evaluate various sources, perspectives, and arguments. It encourages collaborative learning, where students work together, learn from one another, and co-create knowledge. Furthermore, critical pedagogy encourages educators to connect learning outcomes to real-world issues and challenges that students genuinely care about.
The conference stream on critical pedagogy explores how this teaching approach can challenge the status quo, empower learners, and promote social justice. It highlights the importance of fostering critical thinking, dialogue, and action among students, as well as creating a classroom environment that encourages collaboration and connects learning to real-world issues. Critical pedagogy embraces the belief that educators should encourage learners to examine power structures and patterns of inequality through an awakening of critical consciousness.
Future Forward Education
The Futures Forward Education stream at the AISC Conference aims to provide educators with the necessary knowledge and skills to thrive in the ever-changing educational landscape. This stream delves into the latest advancements in education, including cutting-edge technology, pedagogy, and cognitive science. Through workshops, presentations by experts, and networking opportunities, teachers gain insights into integrating innovation into their classrooms and creating engaging learning experiences for their students. The conference empowers educators to embrace new ideas and approaches, preparing them to navigate future challenges and opportunities.
The stream brings together educators to explore the forefront of educational advancements. Participants can discover new pedagogical approaches that foster active learning, critical thinking, and creativity among their students. The stream also features expert speakers who share their experiences and insights, providing valuable perspectives on topics such as personalised learning, blended learning, project-based learning, and technology integration.
In addition to knowledge sharing, the Futures Forward Education stream at the AISC Conference emphasises the importance of networking and collaboration. Educators have the opportunity to connect with like-minded peers from diverse educational backgrounds. These networking opportunities facilitate the exchange of ideas, best practices, and potential collaborations. By building a community of passionate educators, the conference creates an environment where teachers can support and learn from one another, fostering a culture of continuous professional development and growth.
Wellbeing in Education: An Ecological Approach
Join us for an enlightening and purposeful stream at the AISC as we delve into the multifaceted realm of wellbeing in education. This session will explore crucial areas of focus required to foster significant improvements in the mental wellbeing of students, teachers, and the entire school ecosystem. By prioritising and nurturing wellbeing, we make a vital investment in the future of education, as an increasing body of evidence reveals its profound influence on learning, thriving, and leading fulfilling lives. According to a recent study conducted by the University of Oxford's Wellbeing Research Centre, clinical-level mental health difficulties, such as depression or anxiety, affect 10-20% of children and adolescents. This staggering statistic underscores the urgency to provide a holistic framework for promoting the wellbeing of students, teachers, and the entire school ecosystem.
The stream will emphasise the significance of subjective wellbeing as the clearest, most logical, and practical approach for schools. We will explore a comprehensive definition of wellbeing, encompassing three key areas of subjective well-being: life satisfaction, affect, and meaning or purpose. Additionally, we will propose a school-specific definition of wellbeing, tailored to address the unique challenges and opportunities within international educational environments. Touching on related areas of wellbeing that have a positive impact such as resilience, self-esteem, optimism, growth mindset, self-control, emotional regulation, and finding meaning or purpose. By focusing on subjective wellbeing and school life satisfaction, schools can adopt a practical, measurable, and comprehensive approach to create positive change in the lives of young people.
In the Wellbeing section, we will delve into evidence-based strategies and best practices for nurturing wellbeing in educational settings. Through interactive discussions, case studies, and presentations, participants will gain insights into effective interventions, holistic approaches, and collaborative partnerships that empower students, teachers, and the school ecosystem. In the hope that together, we can cultivate happier learners and empower educators to create thriving environments that unlock the full potential of every individual.