Understanding Culture through iEARN Projects

Workshop Title:   “Understanding Culture through iEARN Projects”

Date:                     Saturday, 2^nd October, 2010    

Time:                     09:00 am - 04:00 pm

Target Professionals: English Language; Literacy teachers, History, Social Studies teachers, Curriculum Coordinators and Heads of the Departments.

Abstract:

Culture may be defined as a people's traditions, history, values and language which contribute to their identity. The cultural values of a community give it an identity of its own. Globalization has made this world much smaller place now than it ever was. People with knowledge of a foreign culture and language find themselves at a distinct advantage.

Culture-based education is intended to teach cultural elements of the country, intercultural awareness or the language you teach. Besides improving language skills, it helps students to be aware of their heritage and to value the accomplishments of their family, their community and their ancestors and feel proud of it. Intercultural awareness also builds communicative competency as well as removes misunderstandings by breaking stereotypes.

The workshop participants will be given handouts, tips and guidelines that can be useful in engaging students in iEARN online collaborative projects throughout the academic year.

Aims and Objectives:

This workshop is aimed at introducing the teachers to the concept of:

·         Incorporating the community culture into their teaching.

·         Connecting to the world through meaningful activities using iEARN online collaborative projects.

·         Developing communication of students with people from other cultures and countries through iEARN forums.

·         Building language skills of students.

·         Developing lesson plans and activities for  classroom implementation

·         Developing students’ appreciation and knowledge of the history and culture.