introduction to global education
- There are three things that have really shaped my view on global education. The first came long ago as we redesigned our social studies curriculum to require Global Issues instead of a typical geography or world history course. We want our students to be the leaders of the world of today and tomorrow, but that can't happen if they don't understand the world in which they live. Too often, today's teenagers see themselves as the center of their own little worlds (were we really that different). Instead, we need to open our students to the world and the world to our students. This National Geographic Poster illustrates that concept well.
- The second impact on global education has become the theme song of my global issues course. Matthew West's song MY OWN LITTLE WORLD (check the video) also addresses the issue of narrow view of the world talking about "My own little world, population one." Until we reach out and see the world beyond our own classrooms our wolds will never grow. As West says, "Father break my heart for what breaks Yours. Give me open hands and open doors, put Your light in my eyes and let me see that my own little world is not about me"
- Finally, as a result of TGC work, I was exposed to Chimamanda Adichie's Danger of a Single Story. This must see TedTalk explains the necessity of going beyond the single story of any people and combating stereotypes. The only way to accomplish that is to engage our students and ourselves in multiple perspectives which is one of the very elements of global competency.
Rationale: In the 21st century world it should not be difficult to justify a global education. However, my top reasons listed below might help those of you who need some help in developing a rationale for global education for your department, school, or district.
Global Education
1. enables students to see beyond their own little world and understand links between their lives and those of others around the world.
2. is not limited to any subject area but is interdisciplinary because it opens the world, its people, histories, economies, culture and so much more to students.
3. increases understanding of the economic, political, cultural, and environmental factors that influence our lives.
4. helps students develop necessary skills which will be necessary in the world of the 21st century including communicating ideas across a wide variety of media and among the international community.
5. by introducing multiple perspectives and debunking stereotypes, helps students to respect, value and celebrate people and cultures around the world.
6. creates global citizens who realize they are part of a bigger world that is constantly brought together through technology, politics, trade, economies and the media. As such there are also responsibilities so
7. encourages students to take action, to "DO SOMETHING" as encouraged in the Matthew West song.