KNU and OISE University of Toronto Enhance Global Learning through Innovative Classroom Collaboration
Lusaka, Zambia - April 24, 2024 – In a groundbreaking move towards international educational collaboration, the University of Toronto's Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) and the Kwame Nkrumah University (KNU) in Zambia successfully held their first Global Classroom meeting.
This initiative marks a significant step in providing students and faculty with enriched learning experiences and cross-cultural engagement.
Photo with the former Dean SOE (Left) Mr. Mayamba Sitali, visiting (Center) Prof. Ann Lopezi and (Right) Dr. Sr. Musonda Astridah.Photo with students. (Global clasrrom group)Group photo with Heads Primary and Secondary on discussion of the centre for Leadership
Transformative Educational Experience
The Global Classroom initiative, held virtually on April 24, 2024, brought together students and faculty from both institutions to explore and discuss educational leadership in diverse cultural contexts. Led by Prof. Ann Lopez from OISE, the meeting focused on the strategic vision for internationalization and the benefits of global classrooms.
Empowering Students and Faculty
The program highlighted several key benefits:
For Students: Exposure to global perspectives, development of intercultural skills, and enhanced motivation and engagement.
For Instructors: Strengthened connections with international colleagues, expanded research opportunities, and increased student interaction.
For Institutions: Further internationalization of curricula, establishment of deeper partnerships, and broadened access to global learning.
Student Participation and Support
KNU students actively participated in the course LHA 6014, which delves into the complexities of school leadership within post-colonial contexts. The course provided students with a platform to share their experiences and learn from their peers globally. Noteworthy student contributions included high-quality video projects and thoughtful online discussions, which were highly praised by the faculty.
Funding and Resources
The University of Toronto ensured comprehensive support for KNU students, including funding for internet resources, course development, and guest speakers. Reimbursements for internet expenses and computer rentals were made available to students upon course completion.
Looking Ahead
The successful meeting concluded with a discussion on future possibilities for the Global Classroom initiative. Both institutions expressed a strong commitment to continuing this collaboration, aiming to foster deeper educational partnerships and expand global learning opportunities.
Contact Information
For more information about the Global Classroom initiative and future collaborations, please contact Prof. Ann Lopez at ann.lopez@utoronto.ca.
