What is Global Education?

A global education is one that incorporates learning about the cultures, geographies, histories, and current issues of all the world’s regions. It emphasizes the interconnectedness and diversity of peoples and histories. Global education develops students’ skills to engage with their global peers and highlights actions students can take as citizens of the world. It is a lens that can be applied to all disciplines and all grade levels as well as the broader school community.

Why now?

Global learning is essential in the 21st century as barriers between nations and people continue to fade. From the information we consume to the business we conduct to the people we meet, our lives are becoming ever more global. The diversity of our communities reflects this reality as well. It follows that students need to become more informed and compassionate citizens, and teachers are critical to making this happen.

What can you do?

All educators have a responsibility to create a globally inclusive environment for students. Schools, for example, can promote a more nuanced understanding of the multiple perspectives held by the world’s people. A global classroom can enable students to connect with other ideas and cultures as they navigate and evaluate a variety of information. Teachers of all disciplines can create meaningful learning opportunities that explore cross-cultural perspectives, draw from international examples, and encourage analytical thinking about global issues. Together, these global learning experiences prepare students to engage the larger world with greater confidence, thoughtfulness, and empathy.

All students deserve a high-quality global education. Working together with educators and schools, Primary Source seeks to make this possible.