Let's teach critical thinking.

Topic(s) addressed

The project was based on building thinking skills to have more awareness of the environment. It focused on self-awareness and understanding the world, building knowledge, and mental health, relationships, and teamwork.

Target group(s)

The target group included 15 teachers.

Methodologies

An educational model was used based on building knowledge, skills, and abilities to live in balance with oneself and the environment. It is based on values, key competencies, and mindfulness habits. Self-awareness and increased understanding are encouraged. Through emotional intelligence, mindfulness, outdoor activities, and stress management strategies, social and emotional learning becomes part of the curriculum. The multidisciplinary approach enhanced cooperation. The job shadowing exchange led to the initiation of a student exchange and an eTwinning project with the partners.

Innovation environment

The project went beyond the classroom, consolidating a lasting culture of critical thinking. A positive and mindful school climate was created, supporting brain function, interdisciplinary lessons, and student exchanges and a whole school approach was emphasised. The best educational research was used within the school, sustaining care for knowledge, teamwork, and resilience.

Teachers’ role

The participants enriched their knowledge with creative tools such as educational trends like critical thinking and mindfulness, European inspirations such as holistic approaches, mental health promotion and bullying prevention. Workshops on wellbeing contributed to the acquisition of new competencies in relationship building and emotional support. Cooperation in projects, including eTwinning and student exchanges, was a good opportunity to learn from each other and share good practices and knowledge.

Impact and output

The participants experienced personal and professional development and strengthened their creativity, motivation, language skills, and cooperation. The concept of a holistic approach is being implemented with wellbeing workshops being dedicated to students, teachers, and parents. A learning tool was developed with a compilation of information on daily work, note-taking, goal-setting, and studying. A series of workshops were developed on thinking tools and materials for blended and outdoor lessons. Training groups were initiated along with press articles and many events for the local community.