At BDSIS, we believe in unleashing the natural curiosity within each student, guiding them through an inquiry-based learning journey beyond textbooks and examinations. In this blog post, we invite you to discover the core of our educational philosophy, where questions lead to discoveries, and learning is a dynamic adventure.
The 3 Cs - Curiosity, Collaboration, and Courage
At the heart of our mission lie the 3Cs – Curiosity, Collaboration, and Courage – integral values that shape the individuals within our school community and the collective spirit we foster.
As students progress through each grade, they, are guided by the principles embedded in the B.D. Somani Mission Statement. The ultimate goal is to prepare them for graduation, where they emerge as poised global citizens of the 21st century. These graduates are not only well-versed in academic excellence but are also deeply mindful of their roles within their communities and the broader world. Inquiry-based learning plays a key role in actualising the 3 Cs.
Curious:
Our graduates embody the essence of curiosity as creative learners who consistently think outside the box. Valuing inquiry as a tool to explore and make sense of life and the world, they take pride in applying their knowledge to real-world problems. The connection they forge between local and global communities becomes a hallmark of their inquisitive approach.
Collaborative:
Adaptability and respect define our graduates’ collaborative spirit. They showcase flexibility when working with others and confronting challenges, recognizing and valuing each person’s contribution to their growth. Communicating ideas confidently in diverse contexts, they exemplify open-mindedness by reflecting and engaging with a spectrum of perspectives.
Courageous:
Our graduates embrace responsibility, understanding the consequences of their actions. They express ideas freely, celebrating the diversity of opinions around them. Learning from mistakes and persevering through difficulties, they exhibit resilience and tenacity. Importantly, they translate their courage into action within the community to make a positive impact.
The Essence of Inquiry-Based Learning:
Here at BDSIS, we passionately embrace the idea that every child is inherently curious. As educators, we see it as our duty to nurture and elevate this curiosity as our students progress through their academic journey. Our guiding question is simple yet powerful: “Why?” Through consistent exploration of this question, our students gain a profound understanding of content and concepts, empowering them to apply their learning to real-world circumstances.
We offer a range of world-class facilities to support various educational activities, ensuring a conducive environment for inquiry-based learning. Our infrastructure includes well-equipped laboratories, art studios, and extensive sports areas. Additionally, the Design Lab offers a hands-on, creative space where students can design, experiment, build, and invent while deeply engaging in science, art, and engineering. The lab is stocked with diverse materials, from low-tech items like craft paper and modelling clay to high-tech equipment, including 3-D printers, a laser cutter, electronic kits, and carpentry tools. These facilities serve as practical spaces where secondary students can engage in diverse learning experiences.
Let's look at some examples:
Mathematics as a gateway
In our mathematics classes, students ponder questions like, “How does trigonometry relate to our everyday lives?” By connecting theoretical concepts to practical applications, such as the movement of drones, students gain a unique perspective. This sparks an extended activity where learners take on the challenge of enhancing drone design, showcasing the tangible results of their theoretical knowledge.
In a recent interdisciplinary session, the Grade 12 Math Application and Interpretation HL class explored the calculus concept of volume of revolution, guided by the question, “Do we underestimate the challenges of transferring knowledge from its original context to a new one?”
This question sparked curiosity, leading students to a hands-on experiment in collaboration with educators and industry professionals. The inquiry involved transforming a 2-D figure into a 3-D representation. Through mathematical calculations and practical measures using a measuring cylinder, students understood the volume of revolution concept and validated it in a real-world context.
Language as a starting point
Within our language classes, inquiry-based learning takes the form of questions like, “How does language shape identity?” Here, students explore cultural nuances, fostering international-mindedness. This approach encourages students to question their own thought processes and expressions, deepening their understanding of language and its impact.
History as a Looking Glass
Historical inquiry at BDSIS delves into challenging questions like, “How could rational individuals condone policies of Fascist Italy and Nazi Germany?” This exploration invites students to consider historical contexts, societal crises, and the role of implicit consent. Drawing parallels to modern democracies, this approach nurtures critical thinking and a nuanced view of historical perspectives.
Nurturing Ownership and Independence:
We firmly believe that authentic learning happens when students take ownership of their educational journey. Our Middle Years Programme, IGCSE Programme, and IBDP Programme are designed to provide ample opportunities for this. By emphasizing the practical relevance of concepts over marks-based outcomes, students naturally become motivated and take charge of their own learning.
Celebrating Deeper Understanding and Application:
Success stories at BDSIS are not confined to classrooms. Our students have had their articles published in newspapers, where they applied concepts learned in class to real-world events. These instances underscore the depth of understanding and the practical application of knowledge that our inquiry-based learning model instils.
A Seamless Blend of Tradition and Innovation:
Preparing students for standardized examinations is crucial, and at BDSIS, we strike the perfect balance between traditional teaching methods and innovative inquiry-based learning. Foundational content is taught first, laying the groundwork for further exploration and research. This holistic approach ensures that our students excel in exams and develop a lifelong love for learning.
In Conclusion
At BDSIS, inquiry-based learning is not just a methodology; it’s a way of life. What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to nurturing curiosity, fostering ownership, and delivering a comprehensive educational experience. Additionally, we are devoted to continually enhancing our inquiry-based learning model by incorporating the latest research findings and international best practices. This dedication ensures that our students benefit from an evolving educational approach that remains at the forefront of global educational standards.
