Just what does it mean to be a "global educator"? In her book, The Global Educator, author and global educator Julie Lindsay details what it means to be a global educator. In addition to discussing her own journey towards becoming a global educator, Lindsay talks with over thirty other individuals in her book on their journeys towards becoming global educators.
Throughout her book, Lindsay discusses the Flat Connections Global Project. This project is one unlike any other. For this project, students and educators from all over the world come together in an online, collaborative learning environment. The students work in teams to research "hot topics" in educational technology. Throughout the project, student teams have the support of various Learning Concierges (educators). The Learning Concierges provide students with feedback, tools, and support throughout the research and creation process. For FCGP 17-1, I had the honor to participate as a Learning Concierge. During my time as a Learning Concierge, I had the opportunity to observe students from all across the globe collaborating in one (digital) environment. I also was able to provide those students with feedback on their research and project ideas based on topics such as wearable technologies, robotics, virtual reality, and more. Through participation in this project, all involved are developing 21st century skills of collaboration, communication, and creativity.
Becoming a global educator allows one to be connected to the world in a way that has never been possible before. Educators are involved in groups on Facebook, Twitter, blogs, and even conduct online conference for professional development. By continually striving to become a global educator, I will create and develop a professional network of fellow educators from whom I can learn and discuss new and innovative ways in which we can better teach our students.