Dubai has a diverse range of curriculum in its educational landscape. The multiple curricula are to meet all the academic needs of students from all over the world. Public schools in Dubai use the UAE national curriculum for science and mathematics. However, private schools employ various curricula for mathematics and science, such as American, British, IGCSE, and IB curricula.
Mathematics in other curricula differs, focusing on problem-solving, mental calculations, including numbers, operations, geometry, ratios, equations, and data handling. They are developing mathematical skills, such as reasoning and investigative skills, and offer opportunities for real-life applications. Moreover, these curricula affect math learning through various methodologies, assessment processes, and in-depth content. In this blog, we will discuss how international curriculums are affecting math learning in Dubai.
Landscape of Curriculum in Dubai School
Dubai boasts numerous private schools offering a range of international curricula, including the IB, American, British, and Indian curricula, among others. The different curriculum in the Dubai education system reflects their approach to catering to students from various nationalities. Among all these curricula, the most renowned is the British one, due to its structure, academic depth, and global recognition.
American Curriculum
A large number of schools in Dubai pursue the American curriculum. It aligns with the US Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Mathematics, as well as the Next Generation Science Standards for Science. Additionally, the American curriculum emphasizes flexibility and a broad-based education. Students can explore their interests and develop critical thinking skills.
Structure of the American Curriculum
Elementary School (Grade K-5)
The elementary school stage focuses on foundational skills in reading, writing, and mathematics, as well as science and social studies. This curriculum also introduces Art, music, physical education, and foreign languages.
Junior High School (Grade 6-8)
After foundational skills, students study elective and special subjects courses. They will explore areas such as technology, foreign languages, and computer science.
High School ( Grades 9-12)
These grades prepare students for college and careers. High school includes core subjects, various Advanced Placement (AP) courses, vocational education, honours courses, fine arts, and extracurricular activities.
Post-Secondary Education
Students after high school can continue their studies at universities, colleges, technical schools, and vocational institutions.
How the American Curriculum Affects Math Learning
Electives and Flexibility
In this curriculum, schools offer different math electives and Advanced Placement (AP) courses. It allows students to specialize in areas they are interested in, such as calculus.
Decentralized Structure
It enables more personalized teaching approaches and content, potentially resulting in varied learning experiences in different schools.
British Curriculum
The British curriculum is well-recognized for its structured approach and wide range of subjects. It offers a well-rounded education to the students that prepares them to face a competitive world.
Structure of the British Curriculum
Early Years Foundation Stage
For children aged 0-5, this stage focuses on foundation learning areas, including physical development, communication, and mathematics. This stage concentrates on play-based learning and investigative research.
Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2
These stages define the primary years for ages 5-7 in years 1-2 and 7-11 in years 3-6. Moreover, these stages include core subjects such as English, Science, Mathematics, and Computing, as well as foundation subjects like Arts, Geography, and History.
Key Stage 3
This curriculum introduces more specific subjects in years 7-9, like geography, modern foreign languages, history, design, and technology.
Key Stage 4 - GCSE
In years 10 and 11, exams are taken that lead to GCSE qualifications in core subjects and chosen elective subjects.
Post-16 Education - A-Levels
At this stage, students can pursue A-Levels or vocational qualifications, such as BTECs, which provide a pathway to universities and specific careers.
How the British Curriculum Affects Math Learning
Structured Framework
It delivers a centralized and clear pathway with defined learning objectives and content of specific subjects. The framework ensures a consistent and thorough understanding of mathematical topics.
Balanced Approach
It delivers a balanced approach between theoretical and practical knowledge. This approach provides students with a strong foundation in mathematical principles and applications.
International Baccalaureate (IB) Curriculum
IB is an internationally recognized educational program for students aged 3 to 19. This curriculum focuses on personal development, critical thinking, and global citizenship. It offers students a flexible framework with well-recognized programs, including the IB Diploma Programme, which combines academic subjects with the core program and theory of knowledge. Moreover, it inspires students to learn holistically. Also includes the extended Essay, Creativity, Activity, and Service.
Structure of the IB Curriculum
- Primary Years Programme (PYP) (3-12 years old)
- Middle Years Programme (MYP) (11-16 years old)
- Diploma Programme (DP) (16-19 years old)
How the IB Curriculum Affects Math Learning
All-Inclusive Development
Multifaceted Learning
This international curriculum emphasizes the connection between mathematics and other subjects. It fosters a broader understanding of how to apply mathematical concepts.
Attention to Inquiry
This curriculum encourages students to explore a wide range of topics and conduct research on them. This attention to inquiry promotes a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts rather than memorization.
IGCSE
The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) is an internationally recognized program. This qualification is for students aged 14-16. The Cambridge Assessment International Education has developed this content-rich and structured program.
Moreover, it offers an in-depth understanding of every separate subject domain. Students engaged in a more traditional paradigm that focuses on subject mastery, test performance, and memorization. This curriculum builds a strong intellectual foundation and prepares students for advanced secondary school.
Structure of the IGCSE
- Middle to high school level (ages 14-16)
- Single-stage qualification (Cambridge or Pearson)
- Focuses on a content-driven, exam-focused approach centred on subject-specific knowledge.
- Wide range of subjects, less structured, including language and literature, humanities and social sciences, mathematics, and other science subjects
- Compulsory subjects are flexible, tailored to students' interests.
How the IGCSE Affects Math Learning
Deep Concepts
To follow the IGCSE requires a deep knowledge of maths concepts. Students need to understand the "Why" behind mathematical problems to adapt to different question styles.
Encourages Critical Thinking
The IB curriculum is developed to stimulate skills such as problem-solving and critical thinking, which help to succeed in higher education.
Relentless and Wide Content
The IB syllabus covers core mathematical dimensions such as geometry, algebra, and statistics. These areas build a strong foundation for future studies.
How Online Tutors Help Students in Math Learning
Online math tutoring in Dubai is becoming popular in this digital era. There are numerous reasons why you should choose a private online tutor to help your kids succeed.
Personalized Learning
Online tutors can help by adapting teaching techniques that meet each student's needs. The personalized tutoring approach enables children to understand complex concepts easily and quickly. My Tutor Source offers experienced online tutors who follow a customized approach to teach students.
Flexible Schedule
Online math teachers at MTS offer a flexible schedule, and students can take sessions at a time that suits them. It can be beneficial for families with a busy schedule.
One-on-One Focus
Math tutors at MTS focus individually on each student, which is often challenging in traditional classrooms. Tutors can identify students' weak areas and design their teaching methodology to meet their particular needs.
Enhanced Confidence
Not every student is brilliant at understanding math concepts, and most struggle with it. An online math tutor from MTS can build students' confidence with positive and engaging sessions. A student with enhanced confidence is more likely to participate in challenging problems.
Access to Expertise
At MTS, you will have access to expert and qualified tutors who have a deep understanding of a particular subject. They provide students with deep insights that traditional classrooms are unable to cover.
Convenience
Online tutors offer the convenience of attending classes from home, eliminating the need for commuting.
Affordable Source
Online tutoring is a more affordable source than hiring home tutors. Many tutoring platforms offer tutors at low costs, such as MyTutorSource. It is one of the most well-recognized platforms in Dubai, offering extra educational support to students in math at an affordable price.
Timely Feedback
My Tutor Source enables real-time feedback, allowing students to receive immediate responses to their questions and concerns. It enhanced students' engagement, which leads to better retention of the material.
Engaging Learning
Online math tutors from MTS offer engaging learning sessions with the latest teaching methods. They engage students through interactive tools, educational games, and multimedia resources.
Improved Study Habits
Take educational support from online math tutors at MTS; it will improve your study habits. They also teach study strategies, including test-taking methods, time management, and note-taking.
Effects of International Curriculum on Math Learning in Dubai
The math syllabus is more complex and challenging in the international curriculum, which requires a deep understanding. The mathematics in IB, American, British, and IGCSE have in-depth mathematical concepts that prepare students for higher-level study. Online tutors can help students in a better understanding of these mathematical concepts. My Tutor Source (MTS) offers experienced math tutors to students and engaging online sessions at an affordable cost.
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