Future Problem Solvers

The PLC Future Problem Solving team, comprising of Emily, Oliver, Isla and Amy, has recently returned from a memorable experience at the FPS International Conference in Massachusetts USA, where they participated in two competitions and other conference workshops and activities. High-achieving students from countries including the USA, Turkey, Singapore, China, Canada and New Zealand participated in this prestigious academic challenge. They were required to respond to an unseen scenario set in 2052 in the future topic of currency. In two hours, the team needed to identify challenges in this scenario, formulate an underlying problem, generate solutions and select one of these to prepare an action plan. Their plan needed to overcome the challenges of competing cryptocurrencies and the impact on the residents of the future global tourist resort of Trinidad and Tobago.

Fletcher and William, the younger siblings of the PLC Team members, were placed in teams and completed a booklet with students from around the world in multi-affiliate teams. The following day, all six students were required to prepare a presentation of their action plan as a creative and entertaining skit in which they were also required to improvise and incorporate some quotes and props in a creative fashion.

The International Conference took place over four days and included many opportunities for cultural exchange. PLC students participated in the conference activities with enthusiasm, sharing Australian souvenirs at the memento exchange, and participating in improvisation and project management workshops. They attended a variety show and a dance with students representing other nationalities. A community problem-solving fair enabled them to see samples of international student projects developed to benefit communities from many countries.

The International Conference was an exciting and challenging way for participants to develop leadership skills including the ability to collaboratively solve problems with research and optimism. Before and after the competition, the students all embarked on sightseeing experiences including New York City, Toronto, Vancouver, Boston and Los Angeles. The International Conference was an exciting chance for the students to embrace challenges and extend themselves.

Mrs Jo Belchamber, Head of Learning Middle College