An interaction with Dr. Ben Schmidt

Summary

In this insightful episode, Dr. Ben Schmidt, Global Director of the International Network at Cambridge University Press and Assessment, discusses the evolution of education. He shares his personal journey from academia to education leadership, highlighting the importance of active learning and self-directed students. Dr. Schmidt explores how Cambridge fosters critical thinking, global citizenship, and the integration of technology in education. He also addresses the need for emotional resilience and sustainability in curriculum, emphasizing the holistic development of students and the importance of balancing focus and relaxation in exam preparation. This conversation is a powerful reminder of the human element in education's transformation.

Takeaways

• 😀 Dr. Schmidt's journey into education was deeply influenced by overcoming depression and realizing the importance of helping others, which led him to teaching.
• 😀 Cambridge's education philosophy emphasizes 'active learning,' encouraging students to think critically and deeply engage with subjects beyond surface-level knowledge.
• 😀 The Cambridge curriculum challenges students with complex, 'wicked problems' that don't have clear answers, fostering independent problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• 😀 Technology, including AI, should complement teaching rather than replace it. Cambridge aims for AI to be a 'co-pilot' that supports students and teachers in their learning journey.
• 😀 Cambridge is committed to fostering global citizens through interdisciplinary subjects like Global Perspectives, which combine local and global viewpoints, and encourage collaboration and understanding.
• 😀 Sustainability and climate education are central to Cambridge’s curriculum, with ongoing efforts to integrate these topics across different subjects.
• 😀 Beyond sustainability, Dr. Schmidt stresses the importance of resilience—emphasizing emotional and social skills such as conflict resolution, de-escalation, and self-awareness to face future global challenges.
• 😀 Cambridge allows students to explore their passions and strengths by offering a wide range of subjects, empowering students to make informed choices about their future.
• 😀 Exams like the IGCSE are important, but they should be seen as a snapshot of progress, not a defining factor for the future. Dr. Schmidt encourages students to maintain a healthy balance between focus and relaxation.
• 😀 Dr. Schmidt advises students to be mindful of their emotional state during exam preparation, aiming for a balanced mindset that’s not too tense or too relaxed, in order to stay focused and motivated.
• 😀 The focus on personal growth, emotional intelligence, and resilience is critical to preparing students not only for exams but for life in a rapidly changing and challenging world.

Q & A

What inspired Dr. Schmidt to pursue a career in education?

Dr. Schmidt's journey into education was inspired by a personal struggle with clinical depression in his twenties. A friend encouraged him to shift his focus from personal interests to making a positive difference in others' lives, which led him to teaching and education as a career.

What is Cambridge’s approach to active learning, and how does it differ from traditional learning?

Cambridge promotes 'active learning,' which encourages students to engage deeply with the material rather than passively receiving knowledge. This approach requires students to think critically, tackle complex 'wicked problems,' and gain a deeper understanding of concepts, beyond just memorizing facts.

How does the Cambridge curriculum challenge students beyond basic knowledge acquisition?

The Cambridge curriculum includes complex problems that don't have easy answers, encouraging students to think critically and explore topics in depth. This approach prepares students to apply knowledge to new situations, fostering innovation and problem-solving skills.

How is Cambridge integrating technology, like AI, into the classroom, and what is its role in the learning process?

Cambridge is using AI as a co-pilot, meaning that AI tools are designed to support, not replace, teaching. The goal is to help students and teachers master technology and use it to enhance learning, while ensuring that the human element of teaching and personal interaction remains central.

How does Cambridge's educational philosophy support holistic student development?

Cambridge emphasizes not just academic knowledge but also the development of skills, competencies, and personality traits. It offers a broad range of subjects, allowing students to explore their passions and strengths while fostering interdisciplinary skills and global perspectives.

What is Cambridge's stance on sustainability and climate education?

Cambridge is embedding sustainability and climate awareness across its curriculum. It not only develops specific climate-related programs but also ensures that environmental awareness is integrated into various subjects, preparing students for global challenges.

Why does Dr. Schmidt believe resilience is an important skill for students, especially in the context of climate change?

Dr. Schmidt stresses that, alongside sustainability, resilience is crucial for dealing with future challenges, including environmental disruptions. He emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence, social skills, and conflict resolution in building collective resilience in the face of crises.

What advice does Dr. Schmidt offer to students preparing for exams like IGCSE?

Dr. Schmidt advises students to find a balance between being too anxious and too relaxed when preparing for exams. He suggests focusing but remaining relaxed, monitoring your emotional state, and adjusting your approach if you're feeling too tense or too lax.

How does Cambridge support students in becoming self-directed learners?

Cambridge encourages active learning, where students are responsible for their own education. This includes critical thinking, problem-solving, and applying knowledge in innovative ways, rather than just receiving information passively.

How does the Cambridge curriculum prepare students for global citizenship?

The Cambridge curriculum emphasizes global perspectives, encouraging students to think critically about both local and global issues. It also fosters the development of empathy, collaboration, and the skills needed to navigate a rapidly changing world.