Empathy begins with building connections. With students spending the majority of their day in the classroom, how do we design opportunities to reach beyond those walls and collaborate with others in their community, nation, and world? The goal is to create an environment that incorporates cultural sensitivity and an understanding of how to interact with classmates (and later colleagues) from diverse backgrounds. We know schools cannot afford to physically immerse students into other cultures, but the influx of computers and tablets can create those opportunities virtually and in lessons that align with Common Core, NGSS, ISTE* S and other state standards. By the conclusion of this academy, participants will have access to online, web-based and free tools to use and share with colleagues that will facilitate communication and learning “beyond the walls”.
