Courageous Connections

Course Description: Technology often gets blamed for many negative things in the world – that we are more connected to our devices but less connected to one another, just for starters. In some instances, this may be true, but we can work to shift our perspective around how we use our devices, and focus on all the positive ways we can use our tech tools to create MORE human connection and facilitate deeper learning in our classrooms. We can work with students to use technology to inspire curiosity, engage in empathetic interactions, and create, create, create – whether it’s connections to others, stories to share, solutions to problems, or moments of joy.

Courageous Connections Reflections

How might connecting your students to work on projects with other classes or learn from an expert help them to better understand diverse perspectives?

We talk about perspectives all of the time in my Environmental Science Class. Many environmental issues are controversial because people bring different values and ideals to the table. Connecting with classes and experts can help my students explore these different perspectives and compare them to our own judgements and conclusions. I also believe that these connections can inspire us to ask new questions that we might have missed.

Did any of the above ideas excite you, inspire you, or make connections to other ideas you want to try?

I have explored the Google + Connected Classroom in the past and I also plan to use Flipgrid’s #Gridpals in the future. I am really curious about the Global Nomads group and plan to investigate this as another connection resource this school year.

What is one project that you can commit to trying with your students this year?

We are going to do a service learning project this year. These might be local or global. Students will have some choice. We will be using social media and blog posts to share our experiences. I am hoping that this will build empathy and also bring some more global awareness to my classroom.

How does sharing global connections fit in with the 6 C’s model?

First and foremost it is about communication in a digital learning environment. Students must build both interpersonal and digital communication skills to be successful in today’s world. Right behind communication skills is the aspect of being a global citizen. Making connections will help students engage in global issues as digital citizens. I think the 3rd aspect connected to making connections is critical thinking. Students will need to engage on conversations that require them to consider different perspectives and how they compare/contrast to their own perspectives.