Learn, Lit, Live
Global Education Overview
This page will share several elements of global education. They are as follows;
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Standard-based Global Education Updates
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My Global Education Unit Plan
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International Project-based Learning Opportunities List
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Local Community Resource List
During the Fulbright TGC Program, we were assigned the task of coming up with a presentation that we could share with our local PLCs that gave a quick overview of global education and encouraged its use in an easy and tangible way. Click the PDF for a quick overview of global education.
Standard-based Global Education Updates
One of the many things that appreciated about being a part of the Fulbright program is the fact that we were encouraged to think globally early on and apply it to what we do as educators. We were encouraged to continue to do so in our planning, but also think more deeply about how to tailor lessons to have a more global focus.
In planning lessons, educators know that we must start with standards. It really is easier than one might think. Please click the link below for how I integrate and assess global competences with third and fourth grade Tennessee Reading Standards for some of my lessons in the library.
Global Education Unit Plan
The Global Education Unit Plan is one our major projects in the Fulbright TGC Program. This unit consists of a unit based on what we teach that is globalized and uses technology. It includes multiple lesson ideas and a fully written lesson. As a librarian, I find that a unit on fairy tales naturally lends itself to being taught with a global focus. Several grades in my school have fairy units as a part of the curriculum, so I know that it will be something that I will use with students. My unit focuses on 3rd grade students and utilizes several books and many modes of technology. Please click below to see my Global Education Unit Plan.
International Project-based Learning Opportunities List
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If you are looking for a way to connect globally with other classes, here are some wonderful resources for international project-based learning.
iEarn is a site for educators who are looking for lessons with a global focus and a safe and easy way to collaborate with a class in another country. Online training and videos are offered to help educators learn more about and use the lessons. I look forward to participating in the One Day in the Life Program with students. (Grades K-12)
The Know My World EveryWorld Initiative is a site that matches American schools with schools from other countries and offers support for digital cross-cultural exchanges. (Grades K-12)
Childhood Education International Innovation Exchange is for educators looking for project-based learning ideas around the world. This site can be used to jump start discussion about technological innovations in other countries or to inspire STEM units. I have been inspired by the Innovation Exchange newsletter and have shared articles with my learning community. (Grades K-12)
The Stevens Initiative supports virtual exchange among classrooms in The United States, the Middle East, and North Africa. It is a competitive process. This site shares ideas for project-based projects and many inspirational stories of the impact of virtual exchanges. (Grades 5-12)
Generation Global connects schools with over 20 countries. Students are trained in skillful dialogue, connect with other countries through videoconferences, and connect online. Tools, resources, and training are provided for educators to help successfully implement this program. (Grades 5-12)
Local Community Resource List
There are many organizations in the Memphis area that help our community to connect globally. I've listed some below.
The Memphis Public Library offers many opportunities for individuals and families to connect globally through International Storytimes, conversations for ESL patrons, cultural music, and many other events. Attending these events can add to your cultural knowledge as well as grow your local network.
The National Civil Rights Museum is known for being a memorial to Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. There are so many more ways that this wonderful organization offers and encourages global connection. Art exhibits by internationally acclaimed artists, children's storytimes focused on promoting social change, and online learning links that connect exhibits with standards are available for use by educators.
Choose 901 is a site that highlights events that are happening in the city. Many of them are cultural in nature. I like this site because it is a quick way to stay current about what is going in Memphis and helps me to stay aware of the many cultural organizations that are in Memphis. I often share events share from this site with my learning community when relevant to an area being studied.
I Love Memphis is similar to Choose 901 in that it's a great way to learn about current and cultural events happening in the city. I like that you can easily navigate the site based on your interests and neighborhood.
The Official Tennessee Department of Tourism is often visited for vacation ideas, but it can be a great way to connect to little known treasures that can enhance your lessons. Many storytelling , food, music, and historical festivals are within driving distance. These experiences could be field trip experiences or fun ways for you to learn more about our very diverse state and bring that knowledge back to students.