Department-Philosophy


 * Philosophy:**

=** In addition to the stated and implied goals, values and EAGLES of the Shanghai American School mission and vision statement, the following is a statement of schoolwide social studies departmental philosophy a nd benchmarks. ** =

Social studies instruction at Shanghai American School recognizes all students as lifelong learners and responsible citizens who engage their talents and abilities in our global community. Social studies instruction will provide active learning experiences integrating the skills, analysis, and research necessary for all students to inquire, problem-solve, and make informed decisions in school, personal, and civic settings. The social sciences at SAS will provide the tools required for students to construct an understanding of the human condition.



= Principles of Learning =

Students in the social sciences at Shanghai American School will be privy to 21st century learning that:


 * provides qualitatively unique experiences that reflect best practice strategies as it relates to the teaching and exploration of the social sciences adaptable to student's expressed needs for discussion and meaning.
 * encourages the intellectual risk-taking essential for deep, enduring understanding in the social sciences within a classroom culture and atmosphere of mutual respect.
 * fosters cultural understanding, connections and that develops an understanding and appreciation of the contributions of diverse civilizations and cultures.
 * within a defined framework, affords students an opportunity to "construct" their own unique meaning of the social sciences with focus given to uncovering patterns, trends, and various points of view.
 * are reflected in a codified curriculum, but are also, fluid, flexible, and meaningfully integrated with technological resources.
 * uncovers new thinking about the social sciences.
 * embraces social inquiry and fosters the importance of being a civic-minded, contributing member of a global society.
 * prepares students to discern, interpret, analyze and utilize the vast information available in an increasingly wired, technological world.
 * empowers students with the intellectual inquiry and life-long learning skills (Research, critical thinking and current affairs focus) needed to guide participation and action in a diverse human ecosystem.

=**Recommended draft** =

//Social studies instruction in Shanghai American School will provide all students with an opportunity to become lifelong learners and responsible citizens who engage their talents and abilities in our global community. Social studies instruction will provide active learning experiences integrating the skills, analysis and research necessary for all students to inquire, problem-solve, and make informed decisions in school, personal, and civic settings. The social sciences at SAS will provide the tools required for students to construct an understanding of the human condition.//

What do we, as a collaborative department, believe is the preK-12 purpose is of Social Sciences/Studies /Humanities at Shanghai American School