For decades, modern language departments have found penpals for their pupils, and linked to European schools to help develop language and an appreciation of the culture in the country where that language is spoken. It’s not only in language learning, however, that these links can benefit. Every subject (or topic area) can benefit from an international stimulus.
The etwinning portal both demonstrates this and helps teachers to make links with European schools. There are examples of appropriate projects, and kits of resources for many subjects, and levels, that allow you to derive most benefit from the partnerships you establish. There is online space available (safe and secure) where you and your pupils can share and collaborate with pupils abroad. It really is worth exploring the site and what it can offer you and your pupils. Make it your New Year resolution to widen your pupils’ horizons within your secondary subject, or for your primary class, by registering and using the etwinning portal.
If you want to go wider than just Europe, visit the Global Gateway
With the aspirations of Curriculum for Excellence ( I have the Building the Scottish Curriculum diagram in front of me as I write), who can ignore these readymade opportunities for “broadening of experience of the world” (Values), “opportunities for personal development”, collaboration, “understanding of the world and Scotland’s place in it”? If that doesn’t convince you, etwinning and other international projects, give a new slant to your subject, whatever it may be, and can give a boost to both your own and your pupils’ interest and motivation. ICT makes this as simple as logging on. Give it a try in 2010.