Russell Cailey

In this GESS keynote talk, we offer, after extensive research, an invitation to journey with us into the innovative frontiers of education, where conventional subjects are replaced by domains reflecting the realities of the future. This cutting-edge model transforms the educational landscape, aligning it with the dynamism of the 21st-century world and empowering students with the multifaceted skills they need to flourish in rapidly evolving fields.

 We are moving beyond words.

 The escalating pace of global change has exposed the inadequacies of traditional educational paradigms. To address this, we've developed a skills-first model that integrates vital Emotional Intelligence (EQ) skills with revolutionary curriculum themes, all underpinned by the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL). We've identified four key future domains - Genomics, Artificial Intelligence, Digital Systems, and Environmental Systems - representing the vanguard of scientific and technological progress, crucial for tackling global challenges and catalysing change.

 My talk will explore how we infuse a broad spectrum of EQ skills, ranging from creativity and critical thinking to empathy and global citizenship, into these futuristic domains. The integration of UDL principles ensures our model caters to diverse learning needs, promoting inclusive, adaptable, and effective teaching strategies.

 In essence, we aim to shatter the traditional boundaries of education and pioneer an approach that readies our learners not just to adapt, but to thrive and lead in the emerging future. This journey requires a shared vision and commitment, and we invite you to join the THINK Learning Studio as we reshape the contours of the educational landscape.

In an era where Project-Based Learning (PBL) has become mainstream, in this talk, I propose an idea to explore the evolution beyond this framework, focusing on the innovative implementation of 'Solution Based Learning' (SBL). This methodology, deeply rooted in the extensive research and practical experience accumulated by THINK Global School (TGS) and the THINK Learning Studio, aims to provide a more comprehensive and integrated approach to interdisciplinary learning. Our proposal revolves around insights drawn from over 1,500 executed projects, illuminating the intricacies of assessment, project portfolio construction, and transcript creation.

The crux of my presentation will be the unveiling of TGS’s unique SBL model. It aligns curriculum design with real-world problem-solving skills, seamlessly integrating multiple disciplines into each student's learning experience. The benefits are two-fold: enriched student comprehension across academic fields, and a tangible demonstration of their mastery via a diversified project portfolio. We'll also delve into the innovative assessment methodologies that ensure each student's understanding and aptitude are accurately represented. By shedding light on these elements, we aim to inspire a shift towards Solution Based Learning, paving the way for a true shift in the future of education.