Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
We all think. However, it is the quality of our thoughts that influences good decision-making
and ultimately influences the quality of our life and the things we achieve, produce or build. It
is crucial that students become aware of how they are making their choices and utilise tools
to analyse and assess information which directs them to well-reasoned conclusions. In this
way, problems are viewed more as challenges and resilience is fostered through the
confidence to deal with obstacles in a systematic, self-disciplined way.
Teamwork and Collaborative Learning
Innately, learning is a social act and one in which technology has seen teamwork become
global. Today, the ability to work positively with others is one of the most important skills that
employers look for in prospective employees. In the junior secondary curriculum, students will
be challenged to work with their peers, teachers and members of the community on various
projects and team tasks. They will explore how learning styles and personality influence group
dynamics and affect the way in which they contribute to a team context. Through these
experiences, students will have the opportunity to strengthen their interpersonal,
communication and leadership skills.
ICT Competence
Advances in digital technologies are rapidly transforming traditional ways of working, learning
and living. Students need to be prepared for the challenges and possibilities posed by these
dynamic technologies. At Guildford Grammar School, students will use the latest in hard ware
and software technologies as tools to research, organise, communicate and create
information. Combined with an understanding of the ethical and legal issues surrounding
access and use of information technologies, students will develop skills that allow them to
successfully function in a knowledge-based economy.
Accessing Information – Research
The Information Age has seen a rapid growth in knowledge and greatly improved access to
that knowledge. Today, for students who have access to large amounts of information on any
given subject, the challenge is to analyse and evaluate information and their sources
accurately and efficiently to address the issue or problem at hand. Catalyst students will learn
research skills enabling them to decipher, decode and cross reference information and
develop considered arguments and solutions to various challenges.
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