The word globalism is a term that is used readily and frequently in all manner of contexts, but what does it mean and how do we approach the concept here at Hiba Academy Shanghai?
The Cambridge English Dictionary defines globalism as:
globalism
noun [ U ]
UK /ˈɡləʊ.bəl.ɪ.zəm/ US /ˈɡloʊ.bəl.ɪ.zəm/
the idea that events in one country cannot be separated from those in another and that economic and foreign policy should be planned in an international way
For us, globalism – the planning for an international perspective – is part of our educational ethos and indeed offer to our parents.
Our pupils will attain the highest academic achievements which will provide entry to renowned universities around the world but crucially, when they are in the UK, US, Canada etc, they will need to have all the tools that allow them to function, thrive and thoroughly enjoy their higher education experience.
Globalism is an important part of enabling them to develop the skills necessary to operate in a truly global economy and culture.
For us, this starts with bringing the ‘best of both worlds’ together. We have developed (and continue to refine) an exciting curriculum that, of course, imparts knowledge, but also develops critical analysis, thinking, discussion and debate. Our curriculum builds confidence, resilience and the ability to collaborate, so our pupils can fully embrace every opportunity while studying abroad, thus helping to prepare them to become global leaders in whatever field they choose.
Our pedagogical approach, which represents a marriage of Eastern and Western practices and philosophies, is an integral part of our curriculum. Based on the systematic knowledge and skills learned in classes, our pupils will do a lot of team and group works to improve their critical analysis and self-expression abilities.
Pupils, regardless of their current grade, learn about world cultures while developing their own deep understanding of Chinese history, culture and traditions. Themed cultural weeks and other enrichment experiences deliver such learning in a fun, unique and engaging way.
A vibrant, relevant curriculum is one thing, but it needs excellent teachers to fully deliver its broader lessons as well as the day-to-day learning. Here at Hiba Academy Shanghai, our staff are all highly trained and dedicated teachers drawn from China and from across the globe. Our Chinese teachers are all bilingual and are extremely well qualified, while our overseas teachers are all native English speakers with a wealth of experience acquired from teaching in schools all over the world. The fusion of these two educational traditions is a key strength of our school and is something we continue to develop.
Through our curriculum, enrichment activities and our multinational staff, we aim to bring the outside world into Hiba for our pupils to experience and understand. In time, we believe that they will in turn take a measure of China, its values, culture and spirit, out to the wider world.
