Fostering Students' Global Awareness: Technology Applications in Social Studies Teaching and Learning

Abstract

Global education is essential to students’ development of knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for future employment and for building successful relationships in an increasingly interconnected and pluralistic society. Incorporation of technology in meaningful and authentic learning experiences with students in the classroom as supported by the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPCK) framework allows teachers to foster students’ understandings of the interrelationships of peoples worldwide, thereby preparing them to participate meaningfully as global citizens. An overview of web-based organizations that foster global awareness and a description of professional development opportunities in global education are provided. “Children in this country must be provided an education that more than adequately prepares them for citizenship in the society and world they will soon inherit” (Schukar, 1993, p. 57).