Character Trait : Adaptability

At the heart of the CLS paradigm of developing character education resources is our ability to deliver meaningful information about good character traits in the context of academics. Each good character trait or topic is skill based, grade level specific and aligned to state academic standards.

The focus of the character trait of ADAPTABILITY presents a universal, yet simple definition to establish a common vocabulary and focus. This common focus provides the basis upon which each character-building lesson or activity is built. The lessons that have been created for the character trait of ADAPTABILITY address important skills that include critical thinking, situational problem solving and life application. This is evident in each ADAPTABILITY lesson, encompassing grades K through grade 12.

Since character development is an on going process, relevant situations are presented in activities that are applicable today as well as throughout life. Through the character-based lessons on ADAPTABILITY, students are presented with valuable information that will help them be their personal best.

The Character Links, character building lessons, of ADAPTABILITY present information that helps students to think creatively and determine solutions. The National Academic Standards incorporated in the good character ADAPTABILITY activities include but are not limited to Understanding Human Experience (NL-ENG.K-12.1) and Multicultural Understanding (NL-ENG.K-12.9)

Extended Information on ADAPTABILITY

Some consider that a person’s ability to show adaptability and flexibility is essentially a part of their emotional intelligence. In leadership development, it is a key quality. It is a common trait that all prospective employers seek when considering candidates for a job.  Adaptability and flexibility shows that one can act in a way that encourages change at all times. In today’s challenging times, this is more important than ever. A great leader  can be many things; but most great leaders do not fall apart when they are faced with change and adversity.  Adaptability is important in other countries too. 

The ADAPTABILITY of the Tibetan People

There has been much research and studying into the Stone Age colonization of the plateau in China where the Tibetan people live, hoping to gain insight into human adaptability in general and the cultural strategies the Tibetans developed as they learned to survive in this harsh environment.

The ability of Tibetans to function normally in the oxygen-deficient atmosphere at high altitudes, which is frequently above 4,400 meters (14,000 ft), has often puzzled observers. Recent research shows that, although Tibetans living at high altitudes have no more oxygen in their blood than other people, they have 10 times more nitric oxide and double the forearm blood flow of low-altitude dwellers. Nitric oxide causes dilation of blood vessels allowing blood to flow more freely to the extremities and aids the release of oxygen to tissues.

The Tibetan people are indigenous to Tibet and surrounding areas stretching from Central Asia in the North and West to Myanmar and China Proper in the East and India, Nepal and Bhutan to the south. This ADAPTABILITY has allowed them to continue to live in places that otherwise would not be suited for people to live in.