Lead Tomorrow | CIS middle school students' PBL project research and development: cultivating global competence
Foshan Shunde is a core hub of China's manufacturing industry, renowned for its thriving industrial sector. From traditional manufacturing to smart production, and from century-old craftsmanship to modern design, it stands as a model of industrial upgrading and cultural heritage integration.
On April 29, CIS Grade 9 students embarked on a unique experiential learning journey. They explored factory workshops, robotics companies, and a jewelry culture center, immersing themselves in the real-world fusion of “manufacturing and innovation.” More than just an interdisciplinary study trip, it was a valuable lesson in developing a “global perspective with local insight.”
Beyond the Classroom:
Real-world application
of Project-Based Learning (PBL)
This experiential learning trip was more than just a visit—it was a real-world practice of Project-Based Learning (PBL) within the CIS curriculum. Before the trip, students prepared by studying the manufacturing and culture of Shunde across disciplines. On-site, they engaged with the exhibits, recorded observations, and interacted with guides. Afterward, they deepened their understanding through reflective writing and project presentations.
Each student's experiential learning journey will be included in their personal portfolio, serving as a genuine record of their learning achievements for future college applications.
Real-World Experience:
Understanding Technology
and Innovation
The students’ first stop was the Shunde Industrial Development Exhibition Hall, which showcases the region’s journey from traditional to smart manufacturing. Through the exhibits, they explored key questions: How does technology empower manufacturing? How does industry drive urban growth? With these thoughts in mind, they continued their in-depth visits to local enterprises.
At Guangdong Vanward Group, students stepped onto a modern production line and witnessed how automated equipment efficiently manufactures home appliances. At JATEN Robotics, they experienced cutting-edge global automation in action—high-speed intelligent robots and data-driven precision control—all offering a powerful glimpse into the future of smart manufacturing.
Craft & Heritage:
Hands-on with tradition
Leaving the modern factories behind, the students arrived at the Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Cultural Center—a landmark where national intangible heritage meets contemporary design.
Here, students not only observed the exquisite skills of jewelry design, cutting, and setting, but also had hands-on experience in basic design and polishing. Under the guidance of master artisans, they learned that “craftsmanship” is not just about technique, but a cultural attitude of “slow and meticulous work.”
Student Projects
Global Competence:
From the classroom to the world.
This field study allowed students to discover the value of knowledge in the real world, learn to ask questions, analyze problems, and engage in dialogue with diverse cultures.
The manufacturing and craftsmanship of Foshan Shunde serve as a microcosm of China's industrial development, acting as a bridge for students to connect local culture with a global perspective. In the future, CIS will continue to encourage students to break classroom boundaries and embrace the diversity and richness of the real world.
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