working+definition+of+global+learning



Essentially, global learning is when schools partner with other schools across the globe to accomplish common learning goals/objectives. I believe teachers should be advocates for global learning. Furthermore, teachers should seek to establish and maintain strong global educational relationships with partnering schools.
 * Initial definition of global learning: **


 * Revised definition of original definition of global learning:**

Initially, I assumed global learning (GL) was simply learning in the classroom about other cultures; and possibly utilizing other classrooms around the world to educate, as well. After reading colleagues comments and much reflection, here are the three major ways I can improve my GL awareness in the classroom:
 * 1) 1. Travel! Everyone suggested that I travel to different locals, fully submerging myself in the culture. I would then appreciate other cultures, and learn many things that cannot only be read about.
 * 2) 2. Begin applying GL techniques, perspectives, and exercises in my classroom. In general, create, harbor, and maintain a GL atmosphere.
 * 3) 3. The third option is rather a suggestion, or research question to ponder. In my initial post about GL, I discussed how NCLB & standardized testing compromise the integrity of our educational system. I also talked about how the current education system is teaching children to fill jobs not create jobs. Because both lack a GL atmosphere, they cannot compete with other schools — and in the future, the products of these schools. Thus, the question posted was, should we be pushing for a creative competitiveness based curriculum in schools?
 * Current & working definition of global learning:**

Given my evolving beliefs about global learning (GL), there are multiple opportunities and modalities to experience a global educational experience. GL enables teachers, students, and anyone involved in the initiative, the opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and insight into different locations, cultures, and all both entail. A GL experience is truly an authentic way to acquire knowledge. Due to the GL nature, teachers are providing students with a primary source of real-life accounts, resources, and knowledge – all interesting and valid to the acquisition of knowledge. Thus, we can and //need// to utilize one another – teachers and students – as primary resources to learning. There is nothing more exciting than meeting someone new; likewise, there is something intriguing about new individuals that ignite human nature to want to investigate. Aside from learning about the individual and their home location, we are learning about the history and culture of the place, as well. Finally, GL affords even the lowest SES student the chance to travel the world!
 * Unexamined questions about sense of identity & place:**
 * Who am I?
 * Who have I been? How does that shape the person I am now?
 * Where do I belong? Who do I belong to?
 * What is my place in my school, community, and/or world?
 * How will the knowledge I have learned in this life be passed on, and to whom?
 * What area of the country or world do I desire to live in?
 * What do I find satisfying/enjoyable?
 * What kind of an image do I want to project to others?
 * What type of people do I enjoy being with/why?
 * What kind of a relationship do I desire to have with my relatives, friends, neighbors, and/or people I meet for the first time?
 * In what ways can I improve the quality of life for myself/others? How do I plan to achieve these goals?
 * What do I hope to be doing 3 years from now: career, family, leisure, and/or geography?
 * Make list of 10 characteristics that most define you as a person. Put an X by those characteristics I want to change. List any characteristics I want to add to my personality.