13 September 2012
Cambridge Global Perspectives qualifications prepare learners for the 21st century, developing international-mindedness, critical thinking and communication skills. Students tackle themes of global importance, researching the key issues and evaluating them from a range of viewpoints. Lessons get especially interesting when students exchange views with their peers from other countries, either by linking up with other Cambridge schools or by drawing on multi-cultural backgrounds of students within the same class.
Some schools are introducing Global Perspectives as a core subject in their curriculum as they recognise the benefits it brings in skills development. The Australian International School in Singapore is one such example. When they introduce Cambridge IGCSE in January 2013, Global Perspectives will be compulsory. Dr Nick Miller, Principal, said it fits well with the school's 'globally-focused' mission.
The ground-breaking approach of Global Perspectives also helps develop positive attitudes to learning, because students work together in groups and can choose topics that most interest them. There are lots of ways to add Global Perspectives to your curriculum. Here is a summary of what is available:
Cambridge IGCSE Global Perspectives
The original Global Perspectives qualification for students typically aged 14 to 16. It is taught in schools worldwide.
Cambridge International AS Level Global Perspectives
First examined in June 2012, this qualification prepares students for success in higher education and beyond. It includes our unique Critical Path approach, which is also a feature of Cambridge Pre-U Global Perspectives and Research. By following this path, learners how to deconstruct, reconstruct, reflect and communicate arguments.
Cambridge Pre-U* Global Perspectives and Research (GPR)
We launched Cambridge Pre-U GPR in 2008 to help schools equip students with the skills they need to succeed at university. Cambridge Pre-U GPR is a two-year course: Global Perspectives develops research and thinking skills in the first year, preparing students for an extended project in the second year (the Research Report). It is being taught successfully in schools in the UK, US, New Zealand, India and the Netherlands, among others.
Cambridge Pre-U* Global Perspectives Short Course
First examined in June 2012, we launched this qualification for UK schools who wanted a one-year Global Perspectives course to develop students’ critical thinking skills.
Cambridge Global Perspectives qualifications are well-supported with resources including teacher guides, schemes of work and online discussion forums.
*Schools outside the UK can offer Cambridge Pre-U qualifications on request. Please contact us for approval before you start teaching.