It’s no secret that education is a dynamic field. A teacher’s need to constantly keep learning and attending professional development proves that the education sector is continuously evolving. Schools in Thailand, for example, faced major changes due to the pandemic. What seemed incomprehensible, like distance learning for kids, is now possible. As we look ahead to 2024, several educational trends are poised to shape how we teach and learn.
From innovative teaching methods to holistic development, here are five important educational trends expected to significantly impact Thailand’s International Education.
1. Blended Learning
Remember the pandemic days when kids, parents, and teachers went online to learn and teach? While initially difficult to navigate, blended learning has emerged as a powerful educational approach that seamlessly integrates traditional classroom instruction with online resources and digital tools. This trend recognizes the need for flexibility in education, especially in a world that relies heavily on technology.
Blended learning allows students to benefit from in-person interactions and virtual learning experiences. According to the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE), blended learning enhances student engagement, passion for learning, and confidence. It also caters to various learning styles and paves the way for lifelong learning in a tech-driven era.
2. Lifelong Learning
Education is no longer limited to the classroom. As time passes, society now emphasizes the need for continuous self-development and growth beyond formal education. According to the University of Cincinnati, lifelong learning improves one’s brain, mental well-being, and self-esteem. It also leads to beneficial career advancements, as pursuing new passions could help one connect with like-minded individuals.
D-PREP International School offers various activities such as afterschool clubs and a Life Skills program. These programs improve students academically and enhance soft skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, leadership, and empathy, which are essential for success in a rapidly changing world. By instilling a passion for learning early on, students are better equipped to embrace new challenges throughout their lives.
3. Experiential Learning
Experiential learning takes education beyond textbooks by providing students with hands-on experiences that bridge theoretical knowledge with practical applications. It also gives students various learning opportunities like community service, service learning, and even academic-related activities like undergraduate research and study-abroad programs. In an article by Kent State University, experiential learning gives students a broader view of the world and an appreciation of their community. It also provides gratification from assisting and meeting the needs of their community. Most importantly, experiential learning enhances students’ self-confidence and leadership skills.
At D-PREP, we believe that all children have the potential to become successful through proper guidance. We align experiential learning in our curriculum to give them such an advantage in life. Furthermore, we adopt several unique principles, such as play-based learning, where toddlers observe and interact with their environment, and expeditionary learning, where secondary students actively participate in their education and leave the four walls of their rooms to apply their skills and knowledge to real-world contexts.
4. Gamification
Gamification has revolutionized the way education is delivered in schools. This learning technique incorporates game design elements to make learning fun and challenging. According to EHL Insights, gamification triggers the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, which leads to increased engagement and active participation. Students become more invested in their education and develop problem-solving skills by transforming learning into a game-like experience with points, rewards, and challenges.
One of D-PREP’s latest extracurricular activities is Scholastic E-sports. In this program, students play games and learn about game theory and design. They also learn about the different aspects of the gaming industry, such as content creation, graphic design, marketing, character and world-building, etc. At D-PREP, we harness the power of competition and rewards to make learning enjoyable and motivating. We also aim to give students an advantage in their future careers by keeping up with the latest digital trends and developments.
5. Social Emotional Learning (SEL)
The importance of social-emotional learning (SEL) has grown significantly, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the Committee for Children, SEL is the process of developing one’s self-awareness, self-control, and interpersonal skills. These skills are necessary for success, as they help kids improve academically, make responsible decisions, and thrive in various aspects of their lives.
Gone are the days when children were told to “man up” or suppress their emotions. At D-PREP, we encourage students to understand their emotions using a Mood Meter.
Different feelings are divided into quadrants in the Mood Meter based on their pleasantness and energy level. When children become aware of their emotions, they notice how it impacts their decisions and behaviors, and, in turn, they will learn how to deal with different emotions and situations. Aside from practicing SEL techniques, D-PREP has a specialized team for children requiring additional support. Our learning support staff are trained to look at the children’s needs to ensure no child is left behind.
The future is uncertain, but looking at the current circumstances, next year’s educational landscape will be marked by a dynamic interplay of technology, experiential learning, and holistic development. It is important to stay updated on the latest developments and educational trends that may affect your child. Blended learning, lifelong learning, experiential learning, gamification, and SEL are just among the many driving forces that will shape your children’s education and, in turn, their future.
If you are interested in visiting the school, please contact
Address :
D-PREP International School
38, 38/1-3, 39, Moo 6,
Bangna Trad Rd., Km. 8,
Bang Kaeo, Bang Phli District,
Samut Prakan, Thailand 10540
Email: info@lady
Google Map: https://info.dprep.ac.th/directions
Tel: 02-105-1757, 082-1515922
Website : www.dprep.ac.th
Facebook: DprepSchool
Line: @d-prep
IG : @dprepschool
