Sunday, June 29, 2008

EDC 668 - Week 9 Blog (8 was graduation!!)

From where does global change derive? How can we use global change to promote deeper learning across the globe?

Global change, I believe, derives from the citizens. As soon as I read this question, a quote from someone pretty famous came to me-- "That's one small step for man; one giant leap for mankind" -- spoken by Neil Armstrong himself as he first stepped onto the moon.

He didn't speak of but himself or even of the American people of which he belonged, but for all. While he, like other leaders in politics and beyond may be considered the deal-makers of our time, we are essentially living in a democracy (or we would hope...) that allows the people to have a say in change. We vote in elections--although less than we should as a people-- and we contribute our say to this freedom we have.

Like the United States, other countries allow their people freedom to choose and lead as they see fit. Many unfortunately do not though (thinking of North Korea and Cuba to name a couple). Even North Korea blocks the Internet heavily from their citizens.

Where global change would derive is if the worlds people are able to communicate. Since we know now that they can... what's the hold-up? Well, while I am no expert in the field, I do believe that global change must happen slowly and the people from all walks of life must be in agreement that they see a need for change. Because of our massive diversity and differences, we are still human and still maintain our views in being superior. I guess I only hope that we can further our global growth especially when it comes to learning.

If global change were really visible as our lives are leaning in that wonderous direction, we should see learning as an all-around thing. Nancy mentioned in a recent post in Blackboard that Russians learn about world history- not just their own. Now, while the United States is most considered a powerful nation and others are obviously seeking to attain such power (although I could argue that Russians have a handle on our space system in which I think the U.S. is still trailing...) I can see why they would want to acquire knowledge of our nation... but why aren't we trying to get to know their history?

Global learning will be amazing and entirely relying on technology which is a great blessing and gift in which we should hold dearly.

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