After completing this activity trainees/ learners will have:
- Improved their understanding of global awareness and societal challenges
- Enhanced their communication and empathetic listening skills
- Contributed to their development of leadership and teamwork abilities.
The purpose of this activity is to empower students to delve into complex global issues, promoting awareness, critical thinking, and collaborative problem-solving. Through assigned topics, students explore the multifaceted challenges of issues like gender inequality, climate change, and social justice. In small groups, they engage in comprehensive research, fostering a deep understanding of their assigned topic. The word ‘global’ may be adapted to ‘local’ depending on the context in which the activity is carried out. This activity can also be actioned with students and local or regional councils whereby student groups are connected with the wider local or regional council community. Students shall prepare their assignment, engage with the community on pressing or relevant local issues, and then present their findings as well as community feedback to their respective local councils. In which case, this activity may be integrated into the curriculum and spread out over a number of weeks, months or even the academic year.
Step 1: Topic Assignment (15 minutes)
- Assign each small group a diverse global issue (e.g., gender inequality, climate change, social justice).
- Each Group must research and familiarise themselves with their assigned topic, identifying key challenges and potential solutions.
- Example: Groups researching gender inequality delve into various aspects, including economic disparities, cultural biases, and educational challenges.
Step 2: Group Discussion (30 minutes)
- Tutors must then facilitate a discussion on the importance and challenges associated with each assigned global issue.
- Each Group is then tasked with identifying key aspects and challenges of their assigned global issue, fostering active communication and listening skills.
Step 3: Action Planning (40 minutes)
- Tutors then need to guide their groups in developing a comprehensive action plan to address their chosen issue, considering local and global perspectives. Tutors can encourage students to explore potential solutions, form partnerships, and consider the role of leadership in implementation.
- Example: Tutors may ask groups to outline specific steps, potential obstacles, and the timeline for implementing their proposed solutions.
Step 4: Presentation Preparation (20 minutes)
- Each group must now prepare a presentation outlining their understanding of the global issue and proposed solutions.
- Tutors can provide guidelines for effective presentations, emphasising the importance of clear communication
- Example: by advising on structuring presentations, using visuals, and ensuring each team member contributes.
Step 5: Symposium (30 minutes)
- Each group must present their findings and solutions to the class.
- Tutors can encourage questions and discussions from both peers and themselves.
Step 6: Reflection and Call to Action (25 minutes)
- All students will participate in reflecting on the symposium experience, considering the real-world applications of their proposed solutions. Tutors can encourage students to propose actionable steps for positive change, fostering a sense of responsibility and commitment to making a difference.
