In today’s rapidly connected world, classrooms no longer need to be bound by walls or geography. Two inspiring examples demonstrate how educators can harness technology to foster global collaboration, creativity, and a deeper understanding of the interconnected world.
A Tale of Two Schools: Collaborative Learning Across Continents
In Georgia and Bangladesh, two educators, Vicki Davis of Westwood Schools and Julie Lindsay of the International School Dhaka, have embraced the concept of the “flat classroom.” Inspired by Thomas Friedman’s The World is Flat, their students embarked on a groundbreaking two-week project.
The Setup
Vicki’s 10th-grade Computer Science class and Julie’s 11th-grade ITGS class paired students from their respective schools. Each duo—comprising one student from Georgia and one from Bangladesh—collaborated to create a series of projects, including a wiki, a video, and a podcast exploring topics from Friedman’s book.
The Process
The collaboration began with students recording personal introductions, breaking the ice across cultural and geographical divides. Using tools like wikis and video conferencing, the pairs worked together to tackle their assignments, navigating time zones and technological challenges to create meaningful projects.
The Outcome
The result? A comprehensive and thoughtfully graded collection of digital media projects that didn’t just teach technical skills but also encouraged cultural exchange, global awareness, and critical thinking.
A Language Arts Innovation: Connecting Through Culture
Meanwhile, in South Carolina, Chris Craft, an innovative language arts teacher, used technology to connect his 6th-grade students with their peers in Lima, Peru.
The Preparation
Chris’s students prepared for the interaction by researching Peruvian culture through a classroom wiki. Topics ranged from food to sports, sparking curiosity and excitement as they learned about life in another country.
The Big Day
Using Skype on repurposed computers, the students engaged in a live video conference with their Peruvian counterparts. The energy was electric—students were thrilled to ask questions, share insights, and see the faces of their newfound friends.
Why Flat Classrooms Matter
These examples highlight the incredible potential of flattening classrooms:
- Cultural Understanding: Students gain firsthand exposure to different perspectives, fostering empathy and global citizenship.
- Collaboration Skills: Working across borders develops essential teamwork and communication skills for the future.
- Engagement: The novelty and excitement of connecting with peers worldwide energize students, making learning fun and memorable.
Bringing Flat Classrooms to Your School
Inspired by these projects? Here’s how you can implement similar ideas:
- Find a Partner Class: Use platforms like ePals or the Global Virtual Classroom to connect with educators worldwide.
- Start Small: Begin with simple projects like shared wikis or email pen pals before progressing to multimedia collaborations.
- Leverage Free Tools: Utilize accessible technologies like Skype, Zoom, or collaborative platforms like Google Workspace.
- Encourage Exploration: Let students research and choose topics that excite them, fostering ownership and curiosity.
By flattening the classroom, educators like Vicki Davis, Julie Lindsay, and Chris Craft are paving the way for a more connected and innovative educational experience. These projects remind us of the infinite possibilities technology offers to inspire curiosity, creativity, and collaboration among students worldwide.
How can you bring the world into your classroom? Share your ideas or experiences in the comments below!