Curriculum in Dubai Schools: How Parents Can Compare Different Options
With the wide variety of education options available in Dubai, it can be challenging for families to select a school. The curriculum in Dubai schools may influence the way a child learns, how progress is monitored, and how the child feels in class.
Parents should not ask about the “best” curriculum, but rather the curriculum that is best for their child. Comparisons should include teaching style, assessment, skills and support. Parents should also consider what type of learning environment will enable their child to enjoy school and make good progress.
Understand How the Curriculum Teaches
The first point of comparison is how children are educated. Some have a more rigid and structured design, while others allow for more room for projects, discussion, problem-solving, and hands-on learning.
Vernus International School (VIS) teaches using the Dubai- adapted California Common Core State Standards and California State Standards. It has a learning model that is based on Project-Based Learning (PBL) in which students are faced with actual questions and problems in the world rather than only memorising facts.
Parents should consider if their child will be taught only from textbooks or if they will also be taught through projects, teamwork, questions and hands-on activities when comparing the curriculum in Dubai.
Look Beyond Academic Subjects
A good curriculum should also support children to develop useful life skills. VIS is a threefold approach, known as Learning Skills, Literacy Skills and Life Skills. There are also enrichment programs available at the school, including music, arts, sports and wellness, farming and gardening, food and cooking, and technology and innovation.
This is important when considering international curriculum schools in Dubai. Parents need to find out if the school fosters communication, creativity, confidence, independence and personal development as well as learning.
Compare How Student Progress Is Measured
Parents should be aware of how a school monitors learning. Students take MAP assessments three times a year at VIS. The school also employs internal assessment, classroom checks and end-of-unit assessment.
Parents are entitled to find out how progress is monitored and how results are communicated to parents. Assessment on a regular basis can also assist teachers to know when a student requires additional support.
Review Language and Local Learning Requirements
Dubai is an international city, but schools need to link learning to the UAE as well. VIS employs the UAE Ministry of Education Arabic Curriculum and starts Arabic learning in the KG years. It also offers English as an Additional Language assistance to students who require additional assistance.
This balance is key for families considering a US curriculum international school UAE. Parents should know if the school has an international academic program and local education requirements.
Think About Technology and Real-World Learning
Technology should be used to enhance learning. VIS features an Innovation Lab, virtual reality experiences, STEM learning, 3D printing and robotics. These activities are intended to relate learning to real-life situations.
Parents have the opportunity to inquire about how technology is used to ensure clear learning goals.
Visit the School Before Deciding
A school visit can demonstrate the application of the curriculum in everyday life. Parents are invited to observe classrooms, meet teachers and discuss how the school meets the needs of various learners.
VIS serves children from Pre-K to Grade 5 in Dubai Silicon Oasis.
Conclusion
Comparing the curriculum in Dubai schools is not only about choosing between American, British, IB, or another system. Parents should look at how children are taught, how progress is assessed, what skills are developed, and what support is available.
The correct answer is the curriculum and school setting that is appropriate for the child and enables them to learn with confidence.
FAQs
- What should parents look out for when they look at school curricula in Dubai?
Parents should consider the approach to teaching, assessment, language support, skill development, enrichment activities and overall learning environment.
- What is the curriculum at Vernus International School?
VIS teaches the California Common Core State Standards and the Dubai-adapted California State Standards.
- Does VIS use project-based learning?
Yes. Project-Based learning is a component of the VIS learning model that fosters students to investigate real-life questions and problems.
- Which grades are offered at Vernus International School?
VIS educates students in Dubai Silicon Oasis from Pre-K to Grade 5.
