Student 4.0: How International Schools Prepare Students For Industry 4.0
With the rise of automation and globalization, we will be inevitably facing a new industrial revolution. This revolution will drastically alter the world we live and along with it the workforce. Many jobs that have long been thought of as secure and stable will fade into obsolescence and workers will face challenges never seen before. Fortunately, international schools have several unique factors that make them especially well-equipped to help students not just survive but lead Industry 4.0
STEM Education
One field that will not become obsolete and actually become even more important is STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). STEM education is more than just learning about the sciences such as Physics, or Chemistry, it’s about applying Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics together in an interdisciplinary approach that is applicable to real world issues. Fortunately, many international schools feature STEM education in their curriculum.
For example, Westlake International School has a STEM program where students will be taught STEM skills and processes in ‘project based learning’. Students will need to fully utilize the four components of STEM together to find answers to challenging questions.
Additionally, many schools incorporate cutting-edge technology into their classrooms. Tablets, online learning, and laptops are integrated for more interactive and effective learning. Hence, international school students are familiar with technology and under the guidance of their teacher learn to use them effectively and responsibly.
Life-Long Learning
With the the ever changing landscape of Industry 4.0, students will need to see learning as a lifelong endeavor that does not stop with school. To be active participants in Industry 4.0, students will need to constantly update their skills and knowledge and have a passion to independently evolve and better themselves. This is a mindset that cannot be taught in just books or lectures. However, international schools such as SJI (St. Joseph’s Institution International School Malaysia) seek to not only provide students with academic prowess but also instill positive values and traits. Hence, their goal to “teach minds, touch hearts”.
Education at St. Joseph’s Institution International School Malaysia is infused with Lasallian values, one of which is quality education and prepares students to take greater responsibility for their own education. Values such as diligence, discipline and humility come together to produce individuals who will actively seek to better themselves for the pursuit of knowledge. This is crucial as many roles in Industry 4.0 are still unknown and require adaptable individuals.
Holistic Education
Moreover international schools have a large emphasis on holistic education. In Industry 4.0, specialization in one area is not enough, workers need to be well-rounded individuals with multiple skill sets.
City Harbour International School’s program greatly promotes physical education as well as academics. Their Outward Bound School program lets students develop physically, emotionally, and socially in challenging and engaging outdoor activities ranging from sailing to climbing. The program gives students invaluable experiences and opportunities in attaining the self-confidence and discipline to face down unexpected challenges.
It also informs them on the value of teamwork. Effective communication or social skills are especially important in Industry 4.0 as many developed nations will shift towards becoming service economies. To become future leaders, students need to be able to articulate themselves persuasively and have high EQs.
Creative Innovation
In international schools, out of the box thinking is encouraged rather than stifled. Many still see arts programs as frivolous and purely for recreation but international school know the value and power of creative endeavors. In Industry 4.0, innovation is key, critical thinking, solving problems creatively, observing meaningful associations and having an unique vision. A mind with great ideas and the will to implement them will be the most valuable asset. Thus, international schools have robust art programs such as theater, music, art and more with experienced experts and state-of-the-art facilities.
In addition, various international schools have unique programs designed to cultivate creativity. For instance, Shattuck-St.Mary’s Forest City International School’s weCreate Program provides students the resources and guidance to explore almost anything they desire from robotics to fashion design. The program allows students to unleash their creativity and develop their passions, fostering a habit of inquisitiveness and problem solving.
A Global Mind
Globalization is a vital facet of Industry 4.0, with increased trade and more powerful internet networks, the borders between nations will become blurred more than ever. The increased connectivity in the world requires individuals who have an international outlook.
International schools are so named for good reason, their curriculum, staff and students are international and most importantly they help develop an international mind. For example, Shattuck-St.Mary’s Forest City International School has educators hailing from the US, UK, and Canada and students from Korea, Philippines, China and more. The enriching diversity of international schools allows students to absorb the cultures, languages and lifestyles of people from various nations, ethnicities, and religions. Hence, they will not just be astute culturally aware individuals but also possess an international network.
Interested in more information about international schools and their advantages? Check out our in-depth articles and school listings page.
