Using Blended Learning to Promote Global Education

There is a new buzzword (perhaps not new to some), or rather phrase, often heard in the educational community today.  That phrase is “blended learning”.  So what is blended learning and how does it fulfill the objective of our students connecting on a global perspective?  Depending on who you ask, you will get a different definition of what blending learning is or what it entails, however, according to Charles Graham of Bringham and Young University (2004) blended learning is the convergence of two teaching methods: traditional teaching (face to face) mixed with computer-based technologies.  Some schools have adopted the model of a blended classroom because it allows for the best of both worlds.  Students are able to connect with the outside world from the comfort of their classroom, all while still building on the fundamentals that take place in the classroom, such as relationships with the teacher and their peers.  When it comes to promoting global education, blended learning is essential if we want to encourage our students to collaborate with others to solve real and complex issues of the world.  

Here are my top three favorite tools to promote global learning:

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One tool that allows for live streaming video anywhere in the world is Periscope.  Periscope is free and those who have a Twitter account are able to connect easily since it is run through Twitter.  When using Periscope in the classroom, students may collaborate with others across the globe.  For instance, students could demonstrate specific customs they practice with others or simply take someone on a tour of their school.  

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Kahoot is a game-based tool that can bring people together through the use of a common code.  I love Kahoot because it is particularly easy to setup for teachers and for students to sign-up.  No matter where you are, you can take part in the same assessment as long as you are given the unique classroom code.  You could have students from different classes around the world compete online to answer questions.

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Nearpod allows students and teachers to make interactive lessons and share them with others.  It is also free and the features that it offers are great for students to practice with.  For instance, video, images, links, etc. can all easily be embedded into the lesson.  This would be an excellent presentation tool for both teachers and students.  There are even features that allow students to take or promote “virtual field trips” using 360 panoramic digital content.

Reference:

Graham, C. R. (2004). Blended learning systems: definition, current trends, and future directions.  Pfeiffer. Retrieved from http://www.click4it.org/images/a/a8/Graham.pdf