Developing Global Citizens: Challenging preconceptions through creating global links across classrooms

Abstract

The aim of this project is to explore how children learn about African countries. It explores what effect, if any, corresponding with a class in Zambia via letter writing, videoconferencing and recording videos has on attitudes and knowledge towards Zambia. The purpose of learning about other countries is explored and what it means to develop global citizens within the context of A Curriculum for Excellence. A class of Scottish children completed mind maps about Africa before and after completing the eight week communication with a Zambian school, via letter writing, videoconferencing and filming videos. The data was analysed to track any changes in knowledge and attitude towards Zambia and Africa. The children’s letters were analysed and coded to look at what they want to know about other children in Zambia. Questionnaires were completed about the various modes of communication.  The results have suggested that linking schools across countries can have strong influences on children’s knowledge and attitude toward that country. By developing links between two countries, the research has shown that children can develop friendships despite distance and cultural differences, helping them work towards the true global citizenship.