On February 28, two members of the Manitoba Council for International Cooperation visited our Professional Teacher class to talk about global citizenship in the classroom. This was such an inspiring, and thought provoking presentation about the amount of knowledge that students possess on global citizenship, and ways they are becoming involved in areas to better our world. A survey done by the MCIC of grade 10 students showed that these students possessed a lot of knowledge on sustainable development, yet not many were doing anything to help eliminate poverty or waste. By helping students gain a better understanding of areas that could use their assistance around the world, the students may begin to do some deeper thinking, and devise a plan of action to help a place in need.
One way that students learn best is by playing an active role in a lesson. This was done in the presentation, where we took the place of students who go to conferences put on by the MCIC. The simulation games shown to our class served as powerful examples of what students in other parts of the world may experience everyday. This approach makes the situation feel much more real, and in turn provokes the students to do something to help solve the tragic problems that fellow members of their human race are being faced with on a daily basis. One of the simulations in which we participated dealt with the issue of water and sanitation in countries such as Sudan and South Africa. Two teams were formed, each consisting of three girls and one boy. The two boys were each given a challenging puzzle to complete, that would symbolize them being in school. Meanwhile, the three girls had to do a relay race, carrying jugs of water on their head back and forth across the room. Only once they had done a specific number of laps were they able to go help the boy on their team at school. The girls on the Sudan team did not get to attend school, even after they had carried water, for there are no washrooms available to them. This simulation was great, and I believe it would be very eye opening to a lot of young students.
Another simulation which our class participated in was titled "Pennies for Wealth". Several students were picked to participate in this game where they were each given an individualized special instruction that would determine how many pennies they could collect. The amount collected by each individual differed greatly. This simulation served to demonstrate that even though there is wealth in the world, different people have different levels of access to it. Some people are faced with obstacles that prevent them from gaining economic wealth.
Often we take much of the opportunities we are given for granted, such as being able to use a bathroom or attending school. It would be very beneficial for our students to see the struggles that their peers in other countries are faced with. This simulation would lead to some great discussions, and potential plans to help their global partners.
MCIC is very supportive of students fundraising for projects in other countries, and recently helped a highschool group of students raise money to build girls washrooms in Tanzania. They also went over there with these students to help build the facilities. These are great examples for everyone to see, not just students. In school, we teach our students about humanity, caring, respect, and friendship. Raising funds and supporting other students so that they have the opportunity to gain an education supports all of these goals.
I believe that what MCIC is doing is very powerful and inspiring, and serves as a great model to all our students in helping others. By teaching these young students about the importance of global citizenship, we are taking the first step in helping to create a better world. For these students will soon be adults, who can help influence even more people to make a difference, and assist in the sustainable development of other countries. Many children today are growing up in poverty all over the world, but with the support of programs such as the MCIC, there is potential for all children to be fed, receive education, and fall asleep in a safe place. As teachers, we need to plant this seed in our students, so that one day it will become reality.
http://www.mcic.ca/
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