Beyond Trivia: the Enduring Value of Humanities Learning

On Thursday 8th February, Alice Smith School Secondary students hosted the first-ever Humanities Quiz Show! The Houses went up against each other to battle it out on cultural and historical trivia spanning the globe. Questions ranged from Psychology and Sociology to Business, Economics, Geography and History, each house fought fiercely for the title. At first, Muir and Fleming looked dominant but the tide turned as Fairfield led the way through the second half. However, careless blunders by the teams led to Scott picking up many bonus points, which contributed to their eventual win. 

Alongside this, students and teachers took part in a “Courageous Exploration Day” where they came dressed up as someone inspiring who has trail-blazed in their respective field. From fictional characters like Indiana Jones and Lara Croft to historical figures such as Aristotle, Hedy Lamarr and Sigmund Freud, and modern-day heroes like Malala Yousafzai and Lewis Hamilton. It was a visual feast as each costume reflected a deep appreciation for the humanities and showed the importance of the humanities in shaping our understanding of the world. Once again, congratulations to all our winners and thanks to everyone who participated!

Raisa Roslan and Carmen Mak
Senior Humanities Prefects

The day's events highlighted the crucial role the humanities play in developing key skills beyond mere content knowledge. The quiz show demanded critical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills, while the costume day fostered creativity, research, and self-expression. These are all crucial skills that translate seamlessly into any academic or professional pursuit.

The "Courageous Exploration Day" served as a powerful testament to the humanities' ability to foster empathy and understanding. By embodying diverse figures who dared to explore uncharted territories, students connected with the struggles and triumphs of individuals across cultures and time periods. This not only broadened their historical and cultural awareness but also cultivated a sense of empathy and respect for different perspectives.

In today's increasingly interconnected world, the ability to understand and appreciate diverse viewpoints is more critical than ever. The humanities, by encouraging us to step into the shoes of others, equip us with the tools to navigate a complex and ever-changing world with greater sensitivity and understanding.

The humanities may not hold the key to unlocking the mysteries of the universe, but they hold the key to unlocking ourselves. They equip us with the tools to think critically, communicate effectively, and engage empathetically with the world around us. They allow us to connect with the past, navigate the present, and dream of a better future. As Raisa and Carmen, the Senior Humanities Prefects, rightly note, these events were not just enjoyable - they were powerful reminders of the enduring value of humanities learning in shaping our lives.

So, let us celebrate the quiz shows, the costume days, and all the other ways we engage with the humanities. Let us remember that these disciplines offer more than just facts and figures - they offer the very tools we need to become well-rounded, engaged, and compassionate citizens of the world. We are proud to see such enthusiasm for the humanities within our school community. We encourage everyone to continue exploring the rich tapestry of human expression and embrace the transformative power of humanities learning. After all, the journey of discovery is a lifelong pursuit, and the humanities provide the compass that guides us on this exciting adventure.