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Many teachers have been active proponents in introducing their students to international perspectives through their teaching. These teachers now have a new “educational buzz phrase” for what they have been and are doing — “Internationalizing the Curriculum.” It is a pedagogical direction which is widespread in many national school curricula throughout Europe, and increasingly at Canadian universities and colleges. More elementary and high schools are also adopting the approach to encourage global citizenship and to develop cultural competencies.
Tip Sheet #2 provides teachers with some background, places to start, and links to both Canadian and international resources for “internationalizing the curriculum” in their classrooms.
Definition
“A curriculum which gives international and intercultural knowledge and abilities, aimed at preparing students for performing (professionally, socially, emotionally) in an international and multicultural context.” (Nilsson, 2000)
Characteristics of Internationalized Learning Experiences (*adapted from Paige, 2009)
Instructor Provides:
- Cross‐cultural and cross‐national comparisons
- Readings or research on other countries
- Books and articles written by authors from other countries
- Texts that have an international perspective
- Encouragement to read foreign newspapers and listen to foreign broadcasts
- Opportunities for local students and foreign students to work together on projects
- Opportunities for foreign students to exchange opinions with local students in class
- Writing assignments requiring demonstration of a cross‐cultural perspective
- Inviting guest speakers who have an international perspective to address students
*quoted in Internalization of the Curriculum: Introduction and Resource Guide
Need a starting point?
Top Tips to develop the global dimension in schools, click here.