Philosophy and Key Skills In addition to their specific content and knowledge, the subjects and short courses of junior cycle provide students with opportunities to develop a range of key skills. This course offers opportunities to support all key skills but some are particularly significant. The examples below identify some of the elements that are related to learning activities in Coding. The 8 key skills are set out in detail in Key Skills of Junior Cycle. Key skill Key skill element Student learning activity Being creative Exploring options and alternatives Students choose appropriate problem-solving techniques as they attempt to solve problems through argument. To do this they will seek out different viewpoints and perspectives, imagine different scenarios and outcomes, and be prepared to change their mind. Being literate Expressing ideas clearly and accurately Philosophy encourages the precise use of language and careful reasoning in both oral and written communication. Being numerate Developing a positive disposition towards investigating, reasoning and problem-solving This short course gives students the tools to practise thinking routines. It shifts the emphasis of their work from finding the ‘right’ answer to an appreciation of how their problem-solving processes work. Communicating Discussing and debating Students gain confidence as they participate in class discussion and respond to opposite positions constructively, with reasoned arguments. Managing information and thinking Gathering, recording, organising and evaluating information and data Students gather and evaluate ideas from a range of sources and learn how to use data to support their arguments and make coherent judgments. They are encouraged to reflect on their understanding and review it in light of new ideas encountered. Managing myself Knowing myself Through participation in classroom activities, including class debates and discussions, students come to recognise their personal strengths and grow in awareness of the influences shaping their beliefs and assumptions. Staying well Being positive about learning This course is rooted in students’ own questions and the process of democratic deliberation allows them to exercise their voice and find meaning and enjoyment in learning. Being listened to and respected within a community of enquiry creates a positive classroom culture. Working with others Respecting differences This course encourages students to consider different points of view and to appreciate diversity as a source of enriched learning. It challenges students beyond ‘black and white’ thinking.
