Local sixth formers took a deeper look at some of the big issues affecting society as part of new initiative run by the University of Winchester.
Students from Barton Peveril College in Eastleigh presented their findings at a special event held at the University recently.
The 14 sixth formers were the second cohort to take part in a new programme run in partnership with the University entitled ‘Group Project in Interdisciplinary Learning’.
The ten-week course challenged the Year 12s to research a topic, in some cases conduct a survey, and write a report before delivering a presentation on their research methods, findings and conclusions. Some of the presentations included videos as well as slides and posters.
In addition to helping hone research and analytical abilities, the exercise was aimed at helping to develop teamwork, planning and problem-solving skills.
During their course the sixth formers visited the University for advice sessions with academics.
Five teams gave presentations on the following topics:
Artificial Organs – Saviour or Scourge of Modern Medicine?
Zion Brown, Maciej Dalek and Jayeden Clauer looked at the possibility of artificial organs meeting the growing demand for transplants and, in addition to the medical pros and cons, delved into some of the ethical, legal and religious issues involved.
Shemima Begum
Jess Drake, Chris Cowdrill and Carlos D'Espagnac examined if the teenager who left the UK to join Isis in Syria deserved to be made stateless. Was she, in reality, a victim of radicalisation who was too young to make an informed choice?
Did Social Media Usage Change Due to the Covid 19 pandemic?
Did lockdown and isolation drive up the use of TikTok, YouTube and Instagram? Maggie O'Brien, Sunny Mok and Bradley Coombs looked at the growth in the numbers using these platforms and whether this has been harmful to society.
The Effects of Video Games
Video games can be addictive and bad for your physical and mental health but there are also benefits. Raha Radparvar and Kiyana Youssefi-Fard outlined the pros and cons of gaming.
Fast Fashion
If it takes 7,500 litres of water to make a pair of jeans, should we be thinking about buying fewer clothes and switching to longer-lasting, better-quality garments? Zukhra Armakayeva, Katie Ilsley and Maisie Couldwell examined the harm cheap fashion and rampant consumerism are doing to the planet.
The presentations were made to their fellow students and a panel consisting of Barton Peveril’s principal Rob Temple; Interdisciplinary Learning Coordinator and Maths teacher, Sarah Roberts; Anthony Pagett, Director of Curriculum - Psychology, Criminology, Geography & Interdisciplinary Learning; and University Pro-Vice Chancellor Sam Jones.
Sam said: “It has been great seeing the students grow in confidence over the course of the progamme. They have picked up some great skills that will set them up well for their move into higher education and the workplace.
“Our whole ethos at the University is about setting up our students to succeed in their chosen career, so being able to work with Barton Peveril and their students to embed this approach has been a real pleasure. “
Following their presentations each group answered questions from panel members and the audience.
Each student received a certificate for completion of the course which will be a useful addition to their university applications alongside their A-level grades.
Rob Temple, Principal of Barton Peveril, said: “'This is a unique opportunity for Barton students to extend themselves, beyond the curriculum, and contemplate some of our most challenging societal, political and cultural issues.
“We know that the ability to collaborate with others and articulate your ideas are fundamental employability skills and we are very grateful to the staff at the University of Winchester who have given their time to ensure the project's success.”
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