We all know the importance of learning Mandarin as part of the curriculum, but what are some other ways Chinese culture can come to life at school?
We posed this question to Shanghai teachers to hear about their experiences connecting students with Chinese culture. They have come back with stories of trips outside the classroom, celebrating significant cultural events and activities that teach students about Chinese history. These efforts provide the children a deeper understanding and appreciation for the country in which they live.
So, as the school year continues and children come together in their multicultural classrooms, let's hear from Genevieve Ermeling, Assistant Head of School for teaching and learning at Concordia International School Shanghai.
China's expanding cities, vast landscapes and evolving culture provide an ideal backdrop for Shanghai international school students to deepen their educational experience. Students participating in Concordia's educational travel programs acquire self-knowledge, form new friendships, challenge preconceived ideas and put the needs of others before their own, all while immersing themselves in the unique cultural aspects of their host country.
Day Trips
Our younger students explore Shanghai and the surrounding areas on day trips to museums, theaters, parks and water towns. They also experience service opportunities atlocal schools and charities that are designed to empower them as servant leaders and active global citizens.
Image via Concordia International School Shanghai
Week-long Adventures
As they progress through middle school, students have opportunities to go further afield, exploring different regions of the country through educational travel centered around culture, service and adventure. Weeklong trips to Nanbeihu, Moganshan, Beijing and Yangshuo, are the hallmarks of the middle school educational excursions, and expose students to cultural experiences that allow them to see and accomplish things they have never tried before.
Image via Concordia International School Shanghai
Cultural Immersion
In high school, Concordia students participate in the Transforming Individuals by Education & Service (TrIBES) program. TrIBES offers students the chance to explore Chinese culture through a variety of excursions that take place in destinations across the country. This past September, students chose among activities that included teaching English to village children in rural Yunnan, hiking and camping along the historic trade routes of the Abujee mountain and traveling from Suzhou to Gansu as they traced the same route as ancient merchants along the Silk Road.
Image via Concordia International School Shanghai
China is an endlessly fascinating country. Concordia Shanghai chooses to focus our educational travel in China so that we can take full advantage of everything our host country has to teach us. As Abby, a Grade 11 student said, "We all experience a new culture, new friends and make a valuable connection with the people and environment in which we are immersed."
[Cover image via Concordia International School Shanghai; Profile image via Genevieve Ermeling]
Genevieve Ermeling is the Assistant Head of School for teaching and learning at Concordia International School Shanghai. She is inspired by the rich history outside the school walls that affords students an opportunity to explore and experience deeper learning.
