SUIS QingPu | Ingenuity and Intelligence: The 6th Excellent Teacher Development Conference – Shanghai United International School Qingpu Campus Teacher Development Event

Embracing Change, Exploring the Path of Education

To continually build a high-level teaching team, our school has always placed great emphasis on the professional development for teachers. Through systematic training and continuous learning, we regularly organize various teacher workshops, including academic exchanges, teaching skill enhancement, and the sharing of innovative educational concepts. These workshops cover all subjects in the school, ensuring full participation and fostering a positive learning atmosphere among the entire teaching staff.

Sharing is not only a joy but also a skill. On 24 May 2024, our school proudly hosted the second ‘Workshop Friday’ of this semester. On this occasion, our workshops were not only designed to promote the professional growth of our own teachers at SUIS Qingpu but were also open to members of the 6th Excellent Teacher Development Conference.

The workshops were divided into three main themes: International Perspectives, Teaching & Educational Technology, and Culture & Arts. Under the careful design of each workshop leader, the workshops created an open, relaxed, and interactive learning environment for all, allowing every teacher to learn in an enjoyable setting and gain inspiration through communication. Here is a very brief overview of the workshops offered on this ‘Workshop Friday’.

International Perspectives: Expanding the Global Vision of Education

In this era of globalization, education needs to broaden its international perspective and enhance its influence. By deeply analyzing the impact of artificial intelligence, discussing energy issues, advocating for teacher growth under the concept of holistic education, and learning about cross-cultural communication, the workshop leaders provided us with new insights and practical strategies. Let us work together to promote the diversification and internationalization of education, and jointly create a broader future for education.

The Rise of Artificial Intelligence: Partner or Rival?

The potentially disruptive impact of artificial intelligence on education was deeply discussed in this workshop. Through an examination of data and case studies, participants learned about how AI is reshaping learning and teaching models, helping educators adapt to a new era.

Energy as Opportunity

Members of this workshop discussed issues related to the production, consumption, storage, and trade of primary energy sources, seeking answers and opportunities for the future development of energy.

Teacher Development: An Exciting Journey

Under the guidance of the holistic education philosophy, teachers explored how they can achieve personal growth and mutual growth with students in the process of teaching and educating.

Cross-Cultural Understanding and Communication

Educators learned how to conduct effective cross-cultural communication, understand the cultural background of communication partners, enhance communication efficiency, and promote harmonious team development.

Teaching Technology: Enhancing the Quality and Efficiency of Teaching

In modern education, the optimization of teaching strategies and the application of educational technology are key elements in improving teaching effectiveness and enhancing students’ learning experiences. The school provides teachers with educational training to meet the ever-evolving challenges of education. The “Teaching and Educational Technology” workshop series covered various aspects, from teaching methods to technology applications, aiming to help teachers continuously improve their professional skills.

1.Concept-Based Inquiry 2.0: Teaching Strategies

Participants learned the latest teaching strategies to stimulate students’ interest in learning and foster their autonomous learning abilities.

2.What is Memory? Drawing Lessons from Cognitive Science

The workshop explored how memory works to improve students’ memory retention and the effectiveness of teaching.

3. Introductory Video Editing and New Media Operations

Teachers were taught video editing and new media operation skills to enhance classroom interaction and student engagement.

4. EXCEL Data Processing and Analysis

The workshop showed teachers how to utilize EXCEL for data processing and analysis to improve their data handling and application skills in teaching and research.

5. Creative Math Magic

Participants learned how to use math magic to spark students’ interest in mathematics and develop their thinking skills and creativity.

Culture and Arts: Appreciating the Intricate Beauty of the World

In an era of diverse cultures, arts and culture have become vital components in enriching educational experiences and broadening students’ horizons. This training also included “Culture and Arts” workshops. Through these professional trainings and experiences, teachers will be better equipped to integrate culture and arts into their classrooms, thereby stimulating students’ creativity and aesthetic appreciations.

Chinese Paper Cutting

Teachers learned the techniques and history of paper cutting, showcasing the charm of traditional art and enhancing the love and recognition of Chinese culture.

Replicating Stained Glass Art

Participants created replicated stained glass pieces to enhance their visual art creation skills and stimulate artistic potential.

Secret Garden

Teachers depicted natural scenes to convey the miracles of life and the beautiful meaning of mutual healing between nature and the human soul.

The Convenience Store of Solitude — OH Card Themed Salon

The workshop taught teachers how to use OH cards for emotional expression and psychological healing, improving their skills in mental health education.

Radiant Light

Participants understood the application of light and shadow art to create marvelous visual wonders and inspire students’ curiosity.

New Tool——3D Pens

Our special thanks go out to Mr. Nicolaas Labuschagne for his support putting this workshop together. Although this workshop was not part of his original plan, he took on the responsibility without hesitation and rapidly prepared the necessary tools and materials, providing an excellent experience for participating teachers.

As our Principal Ms. Sunny Huang Ying shared at the 6th Excellent Teacher Development Conference, “The future has arrived, and the only constant is change.” As educators, we must continuously update and develop our educational methods and philosophies to meet the ever-changing social demands and the individual needs of students. It is gratifying to see that the teachers at Shanghai United International School Qingpu Campus consistently maintain an open mindset, actively participate in our workshops, step forward to lead workshops, embrace change, and pursue continuous innovation. Only by doing so can we better prepare our students to face future challenges.

June 24, 2024 School News