#globaledchat Archive
A weekly chat covering topics related to teaching with a global perspective. A rotating cast of guest hosts include education experts and influencers. A must-follow for all educators who would like to open their classroom to global opportunities! Hosted by @HSingmaster and sponsored by @AsiaSocietyEDU
Thursday April 7, 2016
Welcome to ! Introduce yourself & tell us your favorite college mascot in honor of the NCAA tourney & our host from !
Hi Everyone! Jennifer from Longview Fdn - so glad to be at tonight.
Tonight we welcome two special guests to : Jennifer from and from GWU - my alma mater!
I’m Heather Singmaster, moderator. My current favorite mascot is the Villanova Wildcat because they won me my bracket :)
I'm Laura, asst prof @ GW, w/ interests in global ed. + global cit ed. excited for tonight's
Anamaria from Raleigh. Grew up in Romania - no college mascots there, and have not learned the ones from here yet :).
I'm Laura Engel, asst prof @ GW, interested in global ed. + global cit ed. Excited for tonight's on this highly relevant topic
Favorite Mascot? Definitely the Rainbow Warriors fm University of Hawaii Manoa!
I'm Neesha, co-founder of . Happy to be here! Favorite college mascot - !
Hi ! Tara from Northern California, teacher. Favorite mascot = HSU lumberjacks!
Jason in Iowa City & I am contractually obligated to say Herky the Hawkeye
favorite college mascot - either banana slug (just because) or badger (alma mater)
Hi all, Anne () here for Asia Society. As a alum, I have to go with huskies!
Ken from Western Oregon Univ. Here for about 30 until have to take daughter to soccer practice
Q1: Beyond a festival or one-time visit, how has your program utilized diversity of students & community to enhance ?
Hi all, it's Vanessa (global ed consultant) in Portland, dropping by for part of tonight's on one of my favorite topics!
Solving the worlds probs will take cooperation across nations, socio-econ classes & religions - diversity.
Hi everyone! Dave here in San Francisco. Mascot =
Hi all, Stuart from Auckland, New Zealand.
Favorite is not mine, but math teacher sent problems home to families...got more than dozen solutions https://t.co/enkHQj3Wxb
Q1: Beyond a festival or one-time visit, how has your program utilized diversity of students & community to enhance ?
Sharon Kindergarten teacher in Vermont
programs revolve around connecting Ss from many backgrounds.
A1 thru social media exchanges w/other cultures. On campus, Ss have diversity clubs & intl Ss have collaborated in classes
we have regular sessions of Culturally Responsive Pegagogy PLD and are encouraged to be culturally inclusive.
Hello from Australia. So glad to be part of the
A1:Take student teachers to their students' neighborhoods & community centers to meet w/parents, neighbors, & non-profits
Cool idea, more effective than one-events IMO.
Hi Stuart! Thanks for joining! What time is it there?
Heritage projects, autobiographical and biographical narratives, interview projects incorporate all S voices
Empowering Ss to leverage their diverse backgrounds to solve probs together is what is all about.
Jim from New Jersey.... Good Evening!
Almost lunch! 12.13pm, great learning time!
Hi, Missie from Virginia. Happy to be listening to more info!
I've found social media exchanges (done w/ Gaza Ss, Malaysia, Suriname, Swazi) can be very humanizing for US Ss
A1 Challenging for schools to use diversity as real learning experience due to fixed curriculums.
A1: We continue connections with community and peers using for
We try to use all of our students' languages where and when possible and appropriate.
We try to use all of our students' languages where and when possible and appropriate.
We've connected with students in other countries via social media & Skype and shared learning experiences.
Ken, this , how did you get started?
Q2: What are the challenges of using existing diversity in classrooms & schools for deeper global learning?
Solutions were posted on world map as appropriate in the math hallway. Math may be universal language, but it has dialects!
Yes, feeding the ming, and THEN the body!
Yes, feeding the ming, and THEN the body!
Hi! Adrian from Bozeman, MT. Jumping in late :)
I listened to ELL students' voices about some issues at school when I worked as an ELL paraeducator
Yes. Book chapter last year, article in press, & one more article in the pipe.We also worked online w/Ts in S. Africa
Some of our Social Science Ts use Google Earth, maps & Tour Builder to highlight different origins. a1
A2 Not feeling prepared to integrate into learning, concern over backlash, not knowing where it will lead - come to mind
Hello ! Sarah from Ann Arbor, MI popping in & out due to spring break & kid bedtimes!
initially thru ties made being in Peace Corps. Gaza was thanks to a former grad student of mine
I spent a summer in Peru on trying to bring more of that into my library. happy to share A1.
Just shows how close we all can be if we make the effort!
A2: I think we have to always be careful not to “otherize” students who represent diversity in the classroom.
Welcome to ! Jump right in!
Thanks Tim, this is a must-do for my students. They need to see the bigger picture.
A2: support from administration is crucial. Without it, little will happen
Simply a beautiful post. !
not knowing where it may sometimes is the best part!
I couldn't agree more! https://t.co/jW5te8tthW
A2: I think we have to always be careful not to “otherize” students who represent diversity in the classroom.
Took the words out of my mouth
Hi! Fotini from NJ, sorry joining in late
Yes, students with digital access are already globally networked, but need to learn how to manage that.
We find "making global the lens" makes all the diff in the world. What grades do you work with?
A great way to learn about our world from a different and fresh perspective.
So true Tim, that's the kkey. Competency and Capabilities.
A2: Top in my mind as well- esp when working w/children for whom conflict resolution is weak https://t.co/51v3kF3pnF
A2 Not feeling prepared to integrate into learning, concern over backlash, not knowing where it will lead - come to mind
A2: We need to be careful with using our Ss as the ambassador to global learning-They may not be ready for that responsibility
A2 Ts must spend time 2 facilitate reflection on Ss experiences w/ div or can lead to greater misconceptions &/or stereotypes
Thanks for coming back to !
A2: Important to be careful to not ask Ss to speak for their whole culture/race/religion/ethnic group
A1: I'm not a teacher but have used the human library approach in classroom & after school activities: https://t.co/I1AKlmRYSz
making sure the diveristy engagement is not token and fit for purpose in the today and tomorrow. a2
A2: challenge is TIME needed to make courses fluid, student led and designing so students can create content.
Have you found this is often the case?
A2 using diveristy must ensure the learning is localised and relevant still.
Nice post katie and so true!
Nice post katie and so true!
Hi - Natalie here joining a little late!
We are such fans of this!
A2 (pt2) Especially w/our younger Ss. They may have experiences but not the proper training to take it to a DOK level
Q3: Are standards an opportunity or obstacle in harnessing diversity? In what ways?
I agree, and Skype is low cost and accessible for many.
Q2 One challenge is finding ways to leverage diversity in authentic ways.Ss know when exercises are academic and not sincere.
A2: Hesitation to ask questions for fear of coming across as unknowledgeable.
If we're targeting diveristy and expressions of this, In NZ, standards quite euro-centric.
A2: Going beyond "dialogue among civilizations" to meaningful authentic work. https://t.co/E8WwQAukHi https://t.co/oAKcS0dUlM
Q2: What are the challenges of using existing diversity in classrooms & schools for deeper global learning?
Start simple? Design projects to include a global audience/partners? City:Rural, South:North, USA:Far East: EU, etc?
True but in reality these question-askers are in fact the great connector thus become the most knowledgeable.
A3: Standards are opportunities, just appropriate measures and guidelines to incorporate
not knowing where it will lead can be exciting. meaning learning process just as important as destination
A2: And the other side is to help the listeners learn positive responses instead of 'eeewww' https://t.co/sFVdUKkKch
A2: Important to be careful to not ask Ss to speak for their whole culture/race/religion/ethnic group
A3: depends upon whether you approach them from a coverage, or uncoverage minset https://t.co/XPhUuDcSvL
Q3: Are standards an opportunity or obstacle in harnessing diversity? In what ways?
Great point Neesha. It must be relevant and authentic or the students won't engage. A2
A2: Sometimes it feels like some HS Ss from diverse backgrounds would rather blend in than have their culture(s) emphasized
At times - We have Fs from other countries due to our proximity to the U and they are just learning themselves
Mike from MD, Just off Spring Break, might be a little slow.
A3 Standards obstacle 2 harness diversity when tied 2High-Stakes test. Often lead to district tunnel vision &lack of flex 4 Ts
Exactly! Most of them (us - I did it too at times!) don't know that, though, and fear wins. https://t.co/Ojvy0EfSMG
True but in reality these question-askers are in fact the great connector thus become the most knowledgeable.
A2. I think we should not simplify (or reduce) multiple aspects of student diversity to one cultural factor
Agreed! Making leveraging diversity truly useful and relevant is key.
A3: biggest obstacle standards present is sense that "our" standards are more important than Others in
True but jike like these chats, experience alleviates the fear...mostly LOL.
A3: Can depend on approach - We offer this photo essay with standards-aligned lesson on diversity https://t.co/WFqEx7wZ3y
They represent where we are from and where we have been. We started with our identity. Who are you?
A3: definitely an opportunity! 21st century skills are included in the common core, so can be easily taught!
A3: I see standards as opportunities to harness diversity, but other Ts view in general it as an add-on, not a lens
That's a great way to start off and instantly values the individual and their background. #
A4: you can take any standard and apply creativity to engage Ss
What about if it's only leading to a exam?
A3) Standards can be an opportunity when Ts have the resources they need.
A2: Yes! Also important not to define Ss as representative of only one aspect of their diversity/culture/race/etc.
Have you been able to convince colleagues otherwise at all?
We connect Ts from diff countries. They tell us it gives them firsthand understanding of the power of diversity.
A3: Standards no problem. Way standards are assessed are a problem - leads to content focussed, paranoid teaching
Standards are a tool, a structure, framework. Shouldn't impede global partnerships. Fear, Time, Commitment, Connections do.
A3: It depends on how they're taught. If it's taught through integration and through real life situations-then it can harness
I do my quIzzes and tests with Ss are begging for tests lol
Glad to hear! Such a great (and simple) approach!
Q4: What support do teachers need to better harness diversity for deeper global learning?
Start it early elementary, it will happen. By design, not necessarily taught.
Absolutely. Teaching about our complex identities is crucial
- totally agree. Some students might be ready, others mortified. A tricky balance for educators!
https://t.co/pLWWgUnXgr
A3 Too often teachers find GREAT tools and ideas, close their doors, and forget to share. Collaborate.
So true. any tips to avoid this?
A4: Better understanding of what they contribute through their own culture as a classroom leader.
A4 resources, resources, resources, time, & permission from admin to fail when initially implementing!
What grade? We found questions of 'identity' bloom naturally in discussing diversity
Great use of cooltech, I use Padlet a lot to encourage equal voices that all are heard.
indeed! That's why it is so important to invest in T PD -they can make the greatest impact on our Ss lives!
A4: Help in integrating diverse perspectives into what they are already teaching.
A4: More PD and learning opportunities to explore digging into topics around diversity that builds classroom understanding
- agree whole heartedly, but not everyone may be comfortable. Growth mindset and insatioable curiosity help!
Good question. After all we need to diversify according to age and ethnicity often.
Shouldn't be an add on. Should be infused wherever possible.
Good call, we want the parents "in the learning" as much as possible.
Do you mean the classroom culture that is established? Or the cultural background of the T?
A4:many need 2 know how 2 ask deep critical thinking questions & where 2 look 4 relevancy.Tough skill that takes time
A4 The permission to wander, explore and fail in their pursuits and attempts.
by including even though not directly assessed - show data as to how content regurgitation improves in finals.
Great to hear! We love that one...seems to be used in classrooms of all ages - coastal living is issue around world
Must teach both. Also need to teach Ss to understand to read people and other's perspectives. Communication
that's great! Also they have the activity builder where Ss enter responses
It can be infused in any subject, but Ts PD is key here. https://t.co/66qRiEmMdJ
Shouldn't be an add on. Should be infused wherever possible.
Nice share, need to check this out, so many options and opportunities, so little time!
A4: Meaningful, ongoing PD where Ts have the ability to talk about Ss & collab on best practices for those specific kids
Heard D. Coleman CEO of discuss Core, the new SATs & imp of teaching students HOW to think, not what to think.
- yes, and this must be practiced and allowed to cultivate over time!
Cultivating a growth mindset can be part of the PD, it can be learned. So can curiosity. https://t.co/RmRCtP8LXO
- agree whole heartedly, but not everyone may be comfortable. Growth mindset and insatioable curiosity help!
Wish I could stay longer, but have to take daughter to soccer. Thanks !!
Key word for me is "ongoing", can be a one shot deal or teachers won't apply and keep trying and keep talking.
A4: And tips for navigating any "awkward" moments that might arise during these conversations...
A4:When doing PD w/area Ts on these issues, they ask for strategies & resources, but I remind them to speak w/ their Ss.
A4: meaningful PDs, resources, get to know Ss backgrounds and cultures etc
That sounds fantastic - What is a continent song and how can we listen?
Thanks for joining Ken - enjoy the beautiful weather!
A4: We need resources and funding that allows Ts to learn about what works in the classroom from those who know best, teachers
definitely. Can you suggest any great PD programs?
Teach the content, scores will come. Problem is Scores = Teacher performance / evals
can't believe how many Ts and schools still see twitter as purely social media. It's & works for learning
Q5: What are some resources for harnessing diversity in the classroom?
Yes, so important to have the ongoing, focused PD! https://t.co/1QFxCieLDT
A4: Meaningful, ongoing PD where Ts have the ability to talk about Ss & collab on best practices for those specific kids
Definitely. We use a google group for our subscribers so they can share best practices
So true. We have to be mindful of this trap so that our Ts AND Ss do not suffer - nobody wins...
Q3 We find core standards come alive and inspire Ss when framed using global issues.
A4 It has helped me with my perspective. My audience has widened, opportunities have appeared. https://t.co/6TsomrjzSb
So true - from my experience scores actually improve when you move beyond content.
Emphasis on the ongoing, and that can be virtually supported by colleagues around the world https://t.co/cfqvL1szLP
Yes, so important to have the ongoing, focused PD! https://t.co/1QFxCieLDT
A4: Meaningful, ongoing PD where Ts have the ability to talk about Ss & collab on best practices for those specific kids
Probably because they don't understand. I didn't until in Feb. We keep it secret?
Tim, two ke points 1)ongoing and 2) the world is now our classroom.
ongoing is the key here. Not a one time day long experience. Peer connections too!
yes - sharing culture at your school is so important
Analyze whose voices are reflected in school curriculum (textbooks) and learning materials
Yes! You have to account for students experiences and cultural reference points. That requires talking with them
A5: The Global Educator's Toolkit for Elementary Learners by & is a gr8 place 2 start!
Good stuff. I tell my principal, he's really supportive of our journey.
Awesome share Joseph. Nice work!
A4: Also, viewing themselves as Ts as well as Learners in this process can be helpful
So true and nice post. I blogged recently about the need for teachers to still TALK to Ss!
absolutely! We need to constantly be looking critically at what voices are being marginalized in curriculum
A5: use google hangout to collaborate and connect.. Google form surveys to get to know your Ss
A5: Lit that is reflective our diverse student body. Ss see themselves in lit., culture shared w/out putting Ss on the spot
Great point! This duality of roles for both teachers and students means we are all part of the learning process.
Sure! Huge fan of , of course. also does some fantastic work with https://t.co/PKgg5oQ76o
definitely. Can you suggest any great PD programs?
Thanks for backing up my gut and limited research
look forward to it! Great idea.
And listen. Really listen.
Q6: In what ways can we work together in meaningful ways with students from other places (in classrooms or virtually)?
You can also check out - they have good PD as well.
sometimes hard not to think that all roads lead to Paulo Freire
Also have Ss create presentations about where they come from & share it w/Ts + Ss get to know and respect each other
Use primary sources from or and many other places.
nice to see this key thought - It is important to access lit & stories that helps you to understand your own story
A5: Our district ELL coordinator provides our Ts "Can Do Descriptors" and culturally specific resources for specific Ts
A6: Toronto, a very diverse city, has done a lot of work to ensure inclusion of all students: https://t.co/eh33iKSOv4
Thank you I definitely will!
Important that you offer a range of accesses so students can choose best for them and for purpose!
Gotta run . Dinner time here in Colorado! :(
A6 collaborate on real world issues. Look at a problem from different POVs & discuss the solutions!
Love this! We just did a weeklong social impact student film festival w/
A6 Kahoot, padlet, mysteryskype, , , twitter, blogs, and many others?
They are not mutually exclusive, one can't exist without either today and beyond IMO.
Thanks for joining us - see you next week!
A5: And our Teaching for Diversity toolkit is designed for use by Ts at various starting points!
A5: Using collaborative digital tools that can be shared/showcased. My favs are stuff
We've also had success doing a format where students act as festival jurors for global
I am convinced this would happen less if society showed more appreciation for difference in general. https://t.co/4gBJUGa30m
A2: Sometimes it feels like some HS Ss from diverse backgrounds would rather blend in than have their culture(s) emphasized
Great idea Chris, Global probs often have their roots locally anyhow.
A6: we utilize create your own pathways so Ss can collaborate & delve into topics that interest them or others
A6 World politicians could learn much from students working collaboratively (modeling) to solve global issues.
A6: need build personal relationships to build up trust! Kids are kids no matter where they come from!
absolutely. Start local, think global. It works for big or small issues.
bye, Tim! see you at a future
Until we truly value, support, & embrace diversity in all its forms, tolerance & compassion will never be fully manifest.
A6: Using Google Hangouts, padlet, , blogs, allow us to open doors beyond our classrooms
totally agree. If you force a topic that Ss don't care about, you won't have great results. Give choice.
A7: Model it in instruction & provide lots of opportunities to practice. Inviting people into classroom, skyping etc.
absolutely! They could learn a lot from students in general ;)
A6: EdCampGoGlobal had one session that threw out a bunch of ways to connect with children all over the world- very cool.
A7: measuring impact of global learning experiences offers opportunities for researchers and practitioners to work together
A7: Last self-promotion (sorry!) but loved this piece on how to prep students to interact virtually: https://t.co/sZzxGwKh70
Great call! If we all took care of our local issues, the big probs would rarely exist. #
I love ! Another one is coming up in July!
Sounds great! We're always looking for new opportunities to
The resources are right in front of you - your students, their families & communities. https://t.co/UmBbmUN0VF
Q5: What are some resources for harnessing diversity in the classroom?
A7: We have to provide our Ss meaningful opps to make these connections-service learning, global chats, interactions btwn gens
A7: be a role model of a how the mindset. Engage them through challenging activities, allow for decision making and failing
A7 Ss need to understand cultural norms. Things don't always mean the same thing in other places.
Student directed for the win!!
When teachers embrace diversity, students will follow and then lead!
A7: put students in the driver's seat & allow them 2 collaborate toward a common goal. Results will happen when there's buy-in
We're all diverse. All have different stories. Perspectives. Use them. Tell them. A5.
Agree! Some have a hard time w/children in their class. Practice here & go via Skype, etc to help! https://t.co/PpLGlhKqQa
A7: Model it in instruction & provide lots of opportunities to practice. Inviting people into classroom, skyping etc.
Nice post and that needed to be made!
Ss must embrace diversity,make connections & discover to leverage their creativity to solve problems together.
Requires comm. w/ specialists. Tell us what engages your Ss. What you're working on. Ideas wanted
Thanks, easy to say when you've seen it happen with your own eyes and ears.
A7 (pt2) Connections have to be real - they can not just depend on textbooks to go deeper and become global citizens
Today's most powerful seem most helpless in solving big problems. Few are able to take global view. https://t.co/wvo20EiPKS
absolutely! They could learn a lot from students in general ;)
A7) We measure impact through before/after surveys; wonderful to hear S comments as their minds are opened to the wider world
Until TedX Classroom edition took off, I'm afraid most would never notice.
Q8: How do we best share our success stories (& get input on what didn’t go well) with our colleagues, admins, & community?
A7 Also connections through blogging and as an I've made /met amazing global educators.
I meant to write growth mindset
Q8: Leadership is key - providing opportunities to share & scale good practice. Also creating a safe place to "fail" forward.
Start with the little ones, then the big ones. Ss don't know they can't be solved.
A7 contd) "... Very few experiences in the classroom are able to offer such a personal and in depth understanding."
They have to know who they are first and that others may be on different journeys. A7
A7. Start with inquired-based PD for teachers and understand you need measure both teacher and student learning
Sorry to be very late for . Long day on my end!
A8: Write a blog - maybe for the Global Learning blog :)
Get Ss working together globally they will know how to work across borders. Imagine the outcome in 20 years.
yep. Impossible to take a global view when you only listen to/read on source.
Ss from high economic classes are stuck in a bubble. Need to teach them perspective.
And those can be fun to work with- such surprises for them! Great on-line showings to help
yes!! I am an ESL teacher and when u teach with ur heart and u see them as ur own kids, it just works:)
A8: Openness & authenticity are key in sharing these experiences...and sometimes allowing for a bit of vulnerability
A7: students 'prepare' by actually 'doing'. Am in fav of survey's before and after projects to see shift in attitude.
A7 contd) By asking Ss to crit. engage with issues they will be more prepared to interact/empathise w/ diverse comm.
Amazing educators indeed! https://t.co/jSX1NKVYaZ
A7 Also connections through blogging and as an I've made /met amazing global educators.
A8: Use and share w/our PLNs, blog, have discussions at the school, district, and community levels
Great phrase, all Ts need to teach with their minds, their hearts and their souls!
A8 utilize your local press. They LOVE to cover stories about Ss doing something outside the ordinary!
Ss also not negatively influenced by differences (diversity) of those needed to solve global issues. https://t.co/SVPSXs9eIj
Start with the little ones, then the big ones. Ss don't know they can't be solved.
A8 as for colleagues, think bigger than your building. Share in Twitter chats, blog about it, present at conferences.
..... Failure is learning
Yes! Any tips on how to approach them? https://t.co/uiUnEhUxiW
A8 utilize your local press. They LOVE to cover stories about Ss doing something outside the ordinary!
The safe place to experiment is hugely important. https://t.co/4NWweGVer3
Q8: Leadership is key - providing opportunities to share & scale good practice. Also creating a safe place to "fail" forward.
Twitter, Schoolwebsite, school app, whatever it takes to be heard and seen!
Twitter, Schoolwebsite, school app, whatever it takes to be heard and seen!
College and career readiness? Certainly.
Civic readiness and global awareness? Unquestionably.
Priorities, priorities.
A8: on-going reflection and peer collaboration. finding and using a community
A8: sharing failures & challenges is just as meaningful - great learning experiences!
Immediately and often and everywhere!
Q8 Participation in is very effective. Is there a closed Facebook or LinkedIn Page folks rec as well?
A8; tweeter, Google groups, websites, Ed camps, workshops, webinars
We use Google Forms to survey all our parents at our twice-yearly Academic Conferences.
Please join me in thanking our special guests tonight on : and ! Fantastic conversation!
Some districts have great relationships with press. Sometimes you have to sell it yourself to reporters.
Depending on district policy, pick up the phone/shoot an email or tweet. Talk with your principal. Bloggers too
Incredibly rewarding to hear from Ss, or to see amazing student learning products. Nothing like it. https://t.co/O89JWbj78A
A7) We measure impact through before/after surveys; wonderful to hear S comments as their minds are opened to the wider world
great connecting with you!
Created a PD Challenges website. Ts learn strategies & blog about their experiences so all are in a community of learners.
So true, they are the gatekeepers or ideally you do it yourself!
signing off! Thank you joining tonight's great discussions on harnessing diversity in the classroom. see you at the next
Thank you for joining us tonight on . Be sure to grow your & follow all of tonight’s chat participants!
And likewise, no I've feed my my mind time for my stomach! Great sharing and learning everyone!
Heard an elementary S tell another: "It's not weird, it's just different." And my heart sang. https://t.co/O89JWbj78A
A7) We measure impact through before/after surveys; wonderful to hear S comments as their minds are opened to the wider world
A8: sharing t's work with the HE community -- researchers and teacher educators using innovative teaching practice as cases
or get parents to help you out! He squeaky wheel, right?
Fantastic chat tonight - thank you!
you said what I would say :)
