Event Recap: Educating for a Global Future - Insights from Ages of Globalization
Educators, students, course designers, and artists gathered for the panel "Educating for a Global Future: Insights from The Ages of Globalization," a lively discussion about the impact of integrating The Ages of Globalization (AoG) course into educational settings. Hosted as part of the broader Ages of Globalization initiative, the event offered rich insights into how this innovative course is reshaping teaching and learning worldwide.
Ms. Valastro Tripoli, Principal of PS 58 School of Heroes in Queens, New York, opened with an educator’s perspective on curriculum integration. She praised the AoG course for aligning perfectly with global citizenship education, highlighting how interactive elements like virtual field trips and live discussions have transformed her students' engagement. "The AoG course has transformed our approach to teaching history and economics by providing a global context that resonates with our diverse student body," she shared.
Students Cyra Sachan and Shriya Iyer reflected on how the AoG course deepened their understanding of globalization and historical trends. Cyra appreciated the emphasis on interconnectedness, while Shriya noted that viewing current events through a historical lens sharpened her critical thinking skills. Both students found the structure of the course accessible, breaking down complex global issues into relatable learning experiences.
Course designers Haein Shin and Katja Anger-Delimi took participants behind the scenes of the AoG course development. They explained their efforts to ensure the course was both informative and engaging, addressing challenges such as accessibility for a diverse range of students. Looking ahead, they announced plans to expand the curriculum with new modules focusing on contemporary global issues, further enriching the course offering.
Adding a creative dimension, sustainability artist Vida Sabbaghi, founder of COPE NYC, emphasized the powerful role of art in teaching globalization. By incorporating artistic projects into the curriculum, Sabbaghi aims to foster emotional connections to global challenges, inspiring students to think more creatively about sustainability and interconnectedness.
Professor Anne Dolan, an author and educator, introduced her supporting materials for AoG educators, including books and digital resources such as interactive Padlet boards focused on teaching global goals and climate change. Her tools aim to empower teachers with lesson plans and activities that encourage thoughtful discussions around complex global topics.
Throughout the panel, several key themes emerged: the importance of making globalization education relevant and accessible, the value of interactive and interdisciplinary learning, and the challenges and opportunities of digital education. Panelists agreed that the online format of AoG has significantly broadened its reach, enabling a more diverse and globally connected learning community.
The conversation made clear that as the world becomes increasingly interconnected, education must evolve to prepare students for global citizenship. The AoG course stands out for its ability to connect historical perspectives to contemporary issues, offering a flexible and engaging resource for schools worldwide.
Interested educators and students can learn more and register for updates at www.agesofglobalization.com.