Journal #7

Developing Global Citizens: The Global Run Project
by Jody H. Kennedy and Jan Zanetis
(Learning and Leading with Technology, Nov 2007, Vol.35, No.3)

This article discusses interactive videoconferencing (ICV) and a wonderful project that has grown out of using this technological tool--The Global Run project. Started in the wake of 9-11 by teachers and students in White Plains, NY, the project gave students an opportunity to learn about cultures and students in other countries through video conferencing. Real people in real situations became powerful teachers as the students learned, for example, from a girl living with AIDS in South Africa. Through various video conferences such as this, students learned not only about diverse cultures, but also about injustice in various parts of the world. Students developed empathy and compassion as they "put a face to a name", and desired to take action. The Global Run project raises money to help change a global concern: the decreasing supply of fresh water. This article is an incredible example of how technology in the schools can not only increase awareness of global issues, but also how it can empower students to take action for positive social change.

1. Could this be expanded to include more than just students who are privileged enough to have access to technology in their schools? This remains to be seen. I hope that as I become increasingly familiar with technology for the classroom, that I might have an answer to this. The article did mention one class in Japan who didn't have access to videoconferencing (very surprising to me), but the White Plains class was able to connect with them through Skype--something I hope to learn more about.

2. Could students use videoconferencing in other ways? I wonder if what is discussed during the conferences could be taped and used to create films that explore world issues, culture, and diversity.