Fostering Tomorrow's Global Leaders: the Migration Unit at International School Bangkok

In today’s interconnected world, International School Bangkok (ISB) empowers students to become globally-minded, socially-intelligent, and caring individuals. In our dynamic Middle School, we have a very unique and impactful unit of teaching centered around migration, fostering a deep understanding of the diverse world we live in. 

Understanding the Dynamics of Migration

At ISB, we believe that education should extend beyond the classroom walls. Our middle school's migration unit goes beyond textbooks, encouraging students to delve into the rich tapestry of human experiences. Through interactive lessons, students explore the various factors driving migration, gaining insights into the challenges and triumphs faced by those who choose or are forced to relocate.

The guiding question of this unit is: “How can we use stories to build empathy?” Students in Grade 7 examine the life of migrants before migration, throughout the journey, and after the adjustment of migrating through this lens of storytelling and empathy. They are then encouraged to analyze the impact of migration on both individuals and communities, with a focus on broadening perspectives and nurturing empathy. 

Real-World Applications

The highlight of the migration unit is a hands-on project where students step into the shoes of documentary filmmakers to tell the migration stories of people they know and love. Armed with the knowledge gained in class, they venture out to interview individuals who have relocated around the globe, capturing their stories on film. This immersive experience not only reinforces academic concepts but also instills empathy and a profound appreciation for cultural diversity.

Explore some of their work and the stories they told here. 

UN Migration Office Collaboration

International School Bangkok is committed to providing unparalleled learning experiences. As a example of this commitment, our students had the privilege of participating in an in-class activity conducted by the UN Migration office staff right on our campus earlier this term. This collaboration brought real-world expertise into the classroom, offering students a unique perspective on global migration issues. As part of the activity, students reflected in groups on how to support migrants in communities. Here are some of their reflections:

Fostering Social Intelligence & Care

The activities designed for the migration unit not only educate students about the complexities of migration but also nurture their social intelligence. By engaging with real people and real stories, students learn to navigate diverse cultural landscapes with sensitivity and respect, essential skills for the interconnected world they will inherit. 

Through the migration unit, students develop a genuine understanding of the challenges faced by migrants, fostering empathy and compassion. This firsthand experience of connecting with real people builds character and instills a sense of responsibility to contribute positively to society.

The Value of a Globally-Minded Education

We cultivate globally-minded individuals at ISB, and the migration unit perfectly exemplifies our commitment to preparing students to be citizens of the world. This experiential learning fosters an appreciation for global interconnectedness and a sense of responsibility toward shaping a more inclusive and compassionate world. By combining theoretical knowledge with real-world experiences, our students emerge not only academically enriched but also socially-intelligent and caring individuals ready to navigate the complexities of our diverse world. Take the first step towards a brighter future, inquire today!