My PLN

The Teaching with Technology Showcase at Brock University was a Professional Development day geared towards providing teacher candidates with tips of how to use certain technological devices in the classroom. My favourite session was presented by TakingITGlobal, a non-profit organization that aims to empower youth for change. Their vision is for youth around the world to be actively engaged and connected in shaping a more inclusive, peaceful and sustainable world.

Standing with Kate Gatto, the Program Manager of TIGed

While TakingITGlobal (TIG) serves youth via an online community, resources, challenges, and educational programs, the organization also has a separate network for educators. Check out TIGed to visit the educational site. TIG focuses their technology on global citizenship, environmental stewardship, and student voice. The virtual learning platform and programs provide students with an opportunity to learn about local and global issues from a gaming perspective or from directly communicating with classrooms around the world. Teacher members have access to professional development, an online community, and resources that enable them to collect instructional ideas and support from world-wide educators.

Although many classrooms are becoming more involved with global citizenship and environmental stewardship, it is truly difficult to understand these issues without connecting with them. TakingITGlobal allows classrooms to make these personal connections, which makes the global issues much more impactful and meangingful. Through the online community, students can actually play a powerful role as they take on challenges and take on a voice for the world.