Lab for Future Learning
Description
Lab for Future Learning is an exploration aimed at helping high school students within the Chinese education system better prepare for unpredictable futures.
Nowadays, the Chinese education system, particularly at the high school level, is very industrial and primarily focuses on developing certain competencies and skills in students to attain desired grades and secure admission to prestigious universities. This single-minded focus neglects the fact that unpredictable futures demand greater preparedness and adaptability to a variety of crisis situations. Many high school students today are more like “machines,” proficient in many skills molded by the Chinese education system, rather than individuals with a clear vision and corresponding strategies on how to navigate the complexities of their future lives. It is critical to facilitate students’ all-around development by equipping them with a more comprehensive skill set.
The Lab for Future Learning is this project’s design proposal. It is a proposed course development organization that offers an innovative course called “Competencies for the Future” targeted at Chinese high school students. Additionally, it includes a digital platform that offers three service design interventions: a syllabus, a teaching toolkit, and a number of assessment methods to assist high school teachers in effectively delivering this course.
This service- and systems-oriented design project aims to introduce crucial competencies that enhance Chinese high school students’ adaptability and resilience in navigating future complexities. Simultaneously, the related services empower other stakeholders in the Chinese high school education system to create an environment that supports course development for students. It facilitates the collective effort that is needed to enable change and foster the long-term development of alternative values. Additionally, it brings fresh perspectives to the ongoing dialogue on the Chinese high school education system, fostering deeper reflection on the existing education model.