Edubloggercon

Global Connections and Flat Classroom Ideals in a Web 2.0 World
Facilitated by Julie Lindsay and Vicki Davis
Julie and Vicki created two global projects this year - The Flat Classroom based on the ideas from Thomas Friedman's book, The World is Flat and the Horizon Project, a collaborative global project between classrooms in diverse geographical locations.

What defines an effective international project?

Communication, holistic approach, appreciation of multiculturalism
Exposing your students to something different!
Diversify your student’s interests and learning.

The project pedogogy was based on project-based learning and constructivism.

It was suggested that one set of rubrics for all classrooms involved was advantageous. Both teachers said that the borders of their own classrooms disappeared and they commented and encouraged students from both classrooms.

Communication should be consistent. Teachers must have good control of classroom to participate. To create a successful project, over plan, have rubrics, state the outcomes clearly.

Julie and Vicki used a wiki to gather information and for collaboration between the students.