The Junction

Friday 19 May 2023

A Note From Mr Parnell

Laughter is the Best Medicine

This week I have been fortunate enough to attend a stand-up comedy event taking place as part of the 3rd annual Dubai Comedy Festival. The 10 day celebration attracts some of the planet’s funniest people, and boy did I laugh! Did you know, laughter activates the neural pathways of emotions like joy, and therefore improves your mood. It is also a great way of improving social connection. Sharing this experience with some of my friends made it even more enjoyable, as even after the show, we are able to relive those funny moments prolonging those positive vibes!

It’s true: laughter is strong medicine with so many benefits (table below). It draws people together in ways that trigger healthy physical and emotional changes in the body. Laughter strengthens your immune system, boosts mood, diminishes pain, and protects you from the damaging effects of stress. Nothing works faster or more dependably to bring your mind and body back into balance than a good laugh. Humor lightens your burdens, inspires hope, connects you to others, and keeps you grounded, focused, and alert. It also helps you release anger and forgive sooner.

Positive psychology researchers study how people can live meaningful lives and thrive. Laughter produces positive emotions that lead to this kind of flourishing. Love, joy, amusement, and gratitude can all contribute to ‘feeling good’, so by putting yourself in a situation that allows you to experience these positive emotions will of course increase your chances of ‘feeling good’.

As I have suggested many times previously, whether it's the workplace, sporting area, performance stage or academic exams, if one feels good in oneself then they are more likely to perform better. However, we know that it is not realistic to expect to ‘feel good’ all the time. Life is full of challenges, but as we grow we hope to learn how to manage our thoughts and feelings, enjoy the highs, and bounce-back from the lows.

When it comes to learning, some studies have shown the use of ‘appropriate humour’ in the classroom can be positively associated with student learning, including higher scores on final exams. I use the term ‘appropriate humour’ as equally disparaging and offensive humor, inappropriate forms of humor, can impact student performance negatively. As teachers we also understand that teenagers use humour to socially connect, however, sometimes humour or ‘banter’ as it is sometimes referred to, can be taken too far. What is funny for one person, can be offensive for another.

So what have we learnt? Humour and laughter can positively impact our own wellbeing, social connections and our learning experience. However, we must tread carefully to ensure the humour is appropriate to our context and audience. I encourage you to spread some positive vibes this weekend by having a good laugh with someone. Just to get your started, here are some of our JAS teachers trying their hand at some stand up comedy…

5. 18th May - JAS Comedy.mp4

References

Banas, J.A., Dunbar, N., Rodriguez, D & Liu, S (2011) A Review of Humor in Educational Settings: Four Decades of Research, Communication Education, 60:1, 115-144, DOI: 10.1080/03634523.2010.496867

Gibson, J, M. The Science of Laughter and Its Physical, Cognitive, and Emotional Power

Available: https://www.bluezones.com/2020/12/scientific-proof-that-laughter-really-can-be-the-best-medicine/ [Accessed 16/05/2023]

Goel, V., Dolan, R. The functional anatomy of humor: segregating cognitive and affective components. Nat Neurosci 4, 237–238 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1038/85076

Wanzer, M,B.,Frymier, A,B. & Irwin, J. (2010) An Explanation of the Relationship between Instructor Humor and Student Learning: Instructional Humor Processing Theory, Communication Education, 59:1, 1-18, DOI: 10.1080/03634520903367238

Wise, R. Dopamine, learning and motivation. Nat Rev Neurosci 5, 483–494 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn1406

Ziv, A (1988) Teaching and Learning with Humor, The Journal of Experimental Education, 57:1, 4-15, DOI: 10.1080/00220973.1988.10806492

Mr B Parnell

Deputy Headteacher - Pastoral

Week in Review

Literacy Newsletter

Modern Foreign Language

French Mentoring

This week some of our year 8 students mentored primary school students in French. Students became teachers and took charge in asking questions and also role playing. This was a fantastic opportunity for both to showcase their French learning. The mentoring will continue next week.

Arabic

"Cross-Generational Collaboration: Year 2 Students Craft and Present Their Arabic Story to Year 10"

Exciting news for Arabic week! Our Year 2 students showcased their creativity and language skills by crafting and sharing their own Arabic stories with our Year 10 students.

JAS Sport

JAS Secondary Sport

Please see a reminder below of any key documents you need for any information regarding JAS Sport.

Water Polo

Congratulations to our U13 and U15 girls water polo teams this week who have come away with another 2 wins in their season. A special mention to Gabi (Y7) and Ruby (Y10) who were nominated as players of the game this week.

Rounders

Next week JAS will be competing in the DASSA rounders tournaments taking place on Monday 22 May and Wednesday 24 May! The tournaments will be taking place in Sharjah and JAS will be competing against schools across the whole of Dubai.

Basketball

Our basketball fixtures have been so exciting this week. We have seen many games going down to the final whistle. Our U12 girls won 13-11 with Ellie scoring all of her free throws. Our U13 girls lost 10-12 with player of the match going to Daria (Y8) and our U14’s also lost out on one point 15-16 with Grace (Y9) receiving player of the match.

Our U12 boys had a tough game against Kings however, it was great to see more representing the team. The U13 boys were up against the current top of the league and worked extremely hard against a very experienced set of players. The final score being 40-54 and a special mention to Juan, Dinand and Harrison who stepped up this week.

The spotlight this week goes to our U14 boys who managed to secure the win in overtime by one basket winning the game 36-34. Mr Thompson expressed how proud he was of the entire team for keeping their heads whilst under pressure. Congratulations.

U14 Boys Basketball1.mp4

What’s On - WC 22 May

Living in the Online World

Helpful Hints

Helpful Hints for Revision

This is always a busy time of year for assessments. It is important to look after your wellbeing during this time. Here are some helpful hints for students to manage revision and stress:

Create a schedule: Plan your study time and allocate specific time slots for each subject or topic you need to revise.
Break it down: Break your revision into smaller, manageable chunks. This approach makes the workload seem less overwhelming and allows you to focus on one topic at a time, increasing efficiency and reducing stress.
Prioritise and set goals: Identify the key areas or topics that require more attention and prioritise them in your revision schedule. Set specific, achievable goals for each study session to keep yourself motivated.
Use active learning techniques: Passive reading and highlighting can be ineffective. Instead, engage in active learning techniques like summarising information in your own words, teaching someone else, creating flashcards, or practicing with past papers. These techniques promote deeper understanding and retention of the material.
Take regular breaks: It's important to give yourself regular breaks during study sessions. Short breaks every 25-30 minutes can help improve focus and prevent burnout. Use these breaks to relax, stretch, or do something enjoyable to recharge your mind.
Practice self-care: Take care of your physical and mental well-being. Get enough sleep, eat nutritious meals, and engage in regular physical activity. Incorporate relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises or meditation to help manage stress.
Seek support: Don't hesitate to reach out for help when needed. Talk to your teachers, classmates, or family members about any difficulties you're facing. They can provide guidance, explain concepts, or offer emotional support.
Stay positive and motivated: Maintain a positive mindset throughout your revision period. Celebrate small victories, reward yourself for accomplishing goals, and remind yourself of your progress. Surround yourself with positive influences and motivational resources.
Take care of yourself during exams: Practice good exam preparation techniques, such as reading instructions carefully, managing your time wisely during the exam, and reviewing your answers before submitting. Avoid comparing yourself to others and stay focused on your own progress.

Remember, everyone has their own unique learning style and revision methods that work best for them. Experiment with different strategies and find what works for you. Good luck with your studies!

Mrs E Collery

Teacher of Science

Article of Interest

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Education: A Teacher's New Best Friend?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has gained a lot of attention recently, with debates about its potential impact and whether it could replace human teachers. While some argue that AI might take over teaching in the future, the current state of AI in education is not as concerning as it may seem. This article explores how AI is used in education and why human teachers still have a vital role to play in the learning process.

The Digitization of the Classroom

Online teaching platforms and adaptive software are commonly used in classrooms today. Platforms like Khan Academy use AI algorithms to identify students' strengths and weaknesses, personalizing the content accordingly. Adaptive assessment programs, such as MAP and SBAC, help tailor curricula at the school and district levels. While these tools offer convenience and accessibility, studies show that AI-based online courses and assessments do not produce the same results as traditional classroom settings.

What AI Can't Do

Human learning relies on mirror neurons, which respond to both performing and observing actions. Students learn best by watching and imitating human experts, which AI lacks. Human teachers serve as sources of inspiration and empathy, essential for motivating students to learn, create, and excel. Connecting with students emotionally and understanding their individual contexts are unique strengths of human educators. AI struggles to replicate the complexity of human interaction and intuition, making it challenging to analyze students' needs and cues in a classroom setting.

AI TA: The Classroom of the Future:

While AI may not completely replace teachers, it has the potential to enhance their roles. AI teaching assistants (TAs) can help manage routine inquiries and administrative tasks, allowing teachers to focus on addressing more complex student needs. Language learning programs that use humanoid robots in South Korea and Japan have shown promising results in improving conversational skills. Additionally, listening AI devices like Echo and Alexa can provide instant access to information during lessons. These applications enable teachers to be more efficient and provide personalized attention to students.

Embracing AI in the Classroom:

Although there is some resistance to integrating AI and robots in classrooms, attitudes are changing. Successfully leveraging AI in education involves combining it with active human facilitators. AI should be seen as a tool that enhances teachers' abilities rather than replacing them. By streamlining administrative tasks, offering additional instruction, and accessing vast databases, AI can make educators' jobs more efficient and effective.

While AI has made significant progress in education, its current limitations prevent it from fully replacing human teachers. The unique qualities that human educators possess, such as empathy, intuition, and the ability to connect with students on different levels, are crucial to the learning process. However, AI can be a valuable ally, supporting teachers in administrative tasks and providing personalized instruction. The future of education lies in the collaboration between human teachers and AI, ensuring a more efficient and effective learning experience for students.

Adapted from an article written by Keith Lambert, Education World Associate Contributing Editor

Lambert is an English / Language Arts teacher in Connecticut.

Mrs J Fatham

Teacher of Modern Foreign Language

Looking Ahead

Staff Profile

Emily Berry - Head of English

Emily graduated from the University of Wales, Swansea, with a degree in English Literature and subsequently went on to complete a PGCE in Secondary English. Qualifying in 2007, Emily then began her teaching career in inner-city London, before relocating to the UAE.

Emily has taught in three different schools in the UAE, holding middle leadership positions areas of pastoral and curriculum. Currently the Head of English at Jebel Ali School, Emily has lead a very strong and cohesive department for the last four year. Inspired by her own English teacher at school, who made English fun, exciting and rewarding, Emily is passionate about giving all students the opportunity to experience the same, empowering them to be great writers, critical thinkers and creators.

Emily has been living and working in Dubai for 12 years and she is proud to call the UAE her home. As a full-time working Mum, Emily treasures her spare time to spend with her husband and two children. She strives to be the best role model she can be for her own children, balancing the challenges of working life and motherhood as smoothly as possible. Working at JAS, however, has enabled Emily to achieve that balance.

In addition to spending time with her family, Emily enjoys keeping fit by doing circuit classes, playing tennis and hiking. She is also a bit of a foodie, and she loves to cook which definitely stems from her Middle Eastern roots! Additionally, Emily has a passion for interior decorating – she is always moving things around in her home, browsing Pinterest and hunting homeware shops to discover the latest interior trends and designs.

The Jebel Ali School value that most resonates with Emily is resilience. Emily is a huge advocate of mental strength and the importance of refocusing after failures and setbacks.

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