Aims of VaKE
1. Understandt The Impact Of Values In Concrete Problems
In the discussion of concrete problem situations (values conflict) learners grapple with different perceptions of values. In that way they reach a higher level of value understanding and learn strategies in order to be able to solve moral problems. Their solution statements are used in the common discussion.
3. Improve Critical Thinking
Learners grapple with different standpoints to a problem. They learn to discuss solution statements and perceptions with each other and also to challenge them rather than simply adopting them.
5. Expand The Competence Of Problem Solving
Learners acquire the necessary skills and knowledge in order to apply the learned subject matter to any given problem, to formulate hypotheses, to weigh up the alternatives and consequences of their approach to a problem, etc. In doing so they end up with a self-contained solution that is considered adequate by all participants.
7. IMPROVE ABILITIES TO DISCUSS
Learners learn to stick to the declared discussion rules and to play a constructive part in the discussion. Further they acquire the ability to formulate convincing arguments, which are based on funded facts, analogies and samples.
2. ARGUE BASED ON KNOWLEDGE
Learners understand what they have learned, and are able to apply their knowledge to new situations. The intensive debate of a subject matter and the construction of linked (interdisciplinary) knowledge are in the foreground.
4. Improve Autonomous Learning
Learners can work independently and organize the information relevant for them and integrate it in existing concepts. Furthermore they learn to plan and supervise their learning process, to assess themselves and to react appropriately based on the outcomes of their self-assessment.
6. BECOME A BETTER TEAM-WORKER
Learners are able to take responsibility for each other and others in a team in a fear-free atmosphere. On the one hand they introduce their ideas into the team and provide their knowledge. On the other hand they learn active listening, to make compromises, to bring up conflicts, to mediate, to ensure that everybody in the team participates and to provide solutions. In doing so the emphasis is placed on arguments and not on the person presenting them; gender, origin, social position etc. are irrelevant.