Using AI for Global Collaboration in Education

 

 

 

The COVID-19 pandemic showed us just how connected the world is, making it the perfect time to help students work together with people from all over the globe. By connecting with others, students can build empathy, learn different perspectives, and improve their communication skills, all part of the Global Collaborator standard in the ISTE Standards for Students. This standard encourages students to use digital tools to work with others, both locally and internationally.

Since the pandemic, digital collaboration has become more important than ever. It helped people stay connected while social distancing, allowed experts to share important information quickly, and helped people understand each other better. When students practice these skills, they not only become better communicators but also leaders who understand and respect people from different backgrounds. 

A great way to promote this is by using projects that connect students from different cultures. Tools like Empatico make it easier for classrooms to connect based on age, schedule, and interests. For example, a teacher might link their class with one in another country. Soon, students are sharing their experiences and learning from each other. One teacher, Anna Crawford, talked about how her students connected with a class in Mexico. What started as nervous camera interactions turned into students teaching each other Fortnite dances and discussing similar issues in their communities, like homelessness and hunger. 

Another important part of the Global Collaborator standard is using technology to learn from experts. Platforms like Flipgrid help students connect with guest speakers and other classrooms from around the world. A project called the #GoalsProject asked students to discuss United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and then work together on projects about issues like climate change and gender equality.

As students get more comfortable with global collaboration, they can tackle bigger challenges, like learning about global problems and finding ways to help solve them. The #TeachSDGs Movement encourages teachers to help students learn about these global goals and act on issues like hunger and climate change.

In short, using AI and technology to connect with others around the world isn’t just about learning new things, it’s about becoming part of a bigger community, gaining new perspectives, and making a positive difference in the world.

Source:

Standards Spotlight: Introduce Students To Our Small, Connected World With The Global Collaborator Standard