Our second Oxford Academia session at Oxford is off to an inspiring start. As students immerse themselves in their seminar courses, they’re discovering that some of the best learning happens not only in the classroom, but throughout the streets, colleges, and cafés of Oxford.
Architecture & Design
In the early morning we studied the architectural mantra of FFF aka Form Follows Function throughout architecture, design, urbanism, engineering, even biology and environmental science.
We discussed the definition of architecture as a discipline: is it a part of humanities, or sciences, is it a practice or an academic pursuit, and finally came to the conclusion that it is both. We examined the definition of architectural as a trinity of art & science & craft, and across famous architects’ ideas and manifestos.
Before noon, we went to the Covered Market, discussing urban planning and public space design, stocking up on Ben’s Cookies, Oxford (University)’s OG student treat, and then went to the University Church of St Mary’s cafe for a perspective/technical drawing session. Our subject was Radcliffe Camera, Oxford’s landmark, postcard building, and overall icon, University’s reading room and part of the Bodleian Libraries.
Business & Entrepreneurship
Opportunity surrounds us at every turn, if only we will take it. Oxford is full of bustling businesses, commercial endeavours, and a plethora of case studies. The Business and Entrepreneurship class commenced the week learning about what makes a business, a business. We went out in town to discover for ourselves what problems they were solving, who their customers were, and how we could make them better. This framework will be the outline for creating our own companies later in the week.
We kicked off the day by bartering for different brands of chocolates, and discussing the merits of each one. In addition to individual preferences, there were other elements of perceived quality, fairness, commitment to sustainability, or clean ingredients that influenced our views. Why is Starbucks a $120billion company, whilst other cafes cannot manage to keep their doors open?
Finally, students shared their dream futures with each other, and wrote down a goal to make progress towards that ideal. Building the life you want takes thought, planning, and hard work. The students in Business and Entrepreneurship have the world as their oyster, and are just getting started.
Psychology
Our Psychology students enjoyed a fascinating day combining academic learning with exploring some of Oxford’s most iconic locations. They spent time planning their own experimental research projects, discussing some of psychology’s most thought-provoking theories, and experiencing the city that has inspired generations of scholars.
As part of a discussion on Terror Management Theory, a psychological theory exploring how awareness of mortality influences our thoughts, values, and behaviour, the group visited the historic graveyard at St Giles. The setting provided a unique opportunity to reflect on how reminders of mortality can strengthen our appreciation of culture, shared values, and moral principles.
The students also visited Keble College, one of Oxford’s largest colleges and home to around 1,000 students. While admiring its striking Victorian Neo-Gothic architecture, they explored the important role that institutions can play in supporting individuals, both academically and personally. The visit encouraged thoughtful discussions about the different forms of support people may draw upon throughout their lives, whether religious, secular, or community-based.
It was a day that blended academic theory with real-world experiences. It encouraged students to think critically, ask questions, and engage with psychology beyond the classroom.
War & World History (Honors)
The Honours History Class tried their hand at negotiating their way out of the French Revolution, with the king, nobles, and third estate each given a negotiation memo outlining their strengths, weaknesses, and overall objectives. They learned about the challenges facing France in the late eighteenth century and the Revolution’s legacy today.
A Spot of Tea
Students enjoyed afternoon tea at the Ashmolean Museum here in Oxford, indulging in a delicious selection of cakes and a variety of teas.
Click here to learn more about our Oxford Academia program at Oxford.