#06 Journal - Educators Are Going Global

Educators are Going Global by Anita McAnear

The age of the Internet has allowed educators all over the world to collaborate and share educational experiences and curriculum ideas with each other. This educational environment is an important resource that educators cannot afford to overlook. The emerging global culture will demand that the next generation of citizens be more sophisticated, dynamic and well educated than those who came before. As educators we need to invest the time and efforts required to search out and participate in global initiatives and collaborations that will prepare our students to be immersed in the diverse world of the future. Moreover, what wonderful learning opportunities await students who, many for the first time, are able to communicate and for cooperative relationships with others who are so different, but so very much more the same. This type of cross-cultural bridging is what assists humanity's efforts to crush ignorance, intolerance, and racism. Authentic communication is the only way for people to discover that they are one.

1. How would I integrate global collaberation learning in my classroom?

The use of social networking websites allows teachers all over the world to find one another and engage in cooperative learning units. I personally believe that the most important value to teach young adults is social entrepreneurship and justice. Using the WWW to leverage ideas, contributions, and collaberations allows students to contribute to the global community and make a difference in somebody's life.

2. What type of global initiatives would be appropriate for early elementary school age children?

So many resources exist that allow for students to positively impact their world. It is becoming progressively earsier to integrate content areas such as social studies, or economics with social entrpreneurialship sites such as Kiva.org and BeHandsOn.org. These sites allow people to connect with each other world wide and invest time, money, and ideas into making lives better.