Presentation

toc =Connecting Classrooms Across Continents: Planning and Implementing Globally Collaborative Projects=

Abstract:
Ready to “flatten” your classroom walls? Looking to take web 2.0 tools to the next level by developing exciting and authentic projects that allow your students to interact with partners around the world? It may be time to tackle a globally collaborative project in your classroom!

Globally collaborative projects are an exciting way to engage your students in authentic and meaningful learning across cultures and continents. Successfully combining a variety of web 2.0 tools (like blogs, wikis, Skype, IM, social networks, etc) can remove the barriers of time and distance to connect your class with others around the world. Not only do students love to meet their far-flung peers, but learning to collaborate and create in an entirely online and inter-cultural environment will clearly be a critical skill for their future.

Learn how to develop a successful global project - from design and planning to implementation and product, see examples of engaging projects from all grade levels, as well as participate in a real time globally collaborative project with Kim and Jennifer! Although this project will be aimed at elementary school classrooms, teachers of all levels will find inspiration and applicable and practical ideas throughout this video presentation that will incorporate a wide-range of web 2.0 tools!

**Presentation Goals and Objectives:**

 * Share successful strategies for planning, implementing and reflecting on globally collaborative projects which effectively use a variety of web 2.0 tools.
 * Engage participants in an online, globally collaborative project, that they can participate in immediately with their class.
 * Tap into the participant feedback for more elementary-appropriate presentations, by focusing on PK-5 teachers and students.

**Anticipated Outcomes:**

 * Participants will learn how to use a variety of web 2.0 tools to "flatten" the walls of their classroom by engaging in globally collaborative projects.
 * Participants will learn how to collaborate successfully both internationally and within their own campus.
 * Participants will learn how to successfully plan, implement and reflect on globally collaborative projects.
 * Participants will take part in a real-time, authentic, globally collaborative project.

**Essential Questions:**

 * Why is it important to use the right tool(s) for the task in order to develop an engaging collaborative project?
 * How can thorough and careful planning facilitate successful globally collaborative projects?
 * How can implementing globally collaborative projects in your classroom help students begin a personal learning journey?

Teasers:
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