Global Educational Synergies: Moldova’s iEARN Conference Connects 250 Educators for Transformative Learning

Global Educational Synergies: Moldova’s iEARN Conference Connects 250 Educators for Transformative Learning

by | Nov 18, 2024 | iEARN-USA News, News and Updates

On September 28, Moldova saw an unprecedented convergence of 250 educators at the Ion Creangă State University in Chișinău for the iEARN-Moldova Global Education Conference. Organized by the iEARN-Moldova network in collaboration with the General Directorate for Education, Youth, and Sports, and America House Cultural Center, the conference marked a pivotal moment for Moldova’s educational future. At the event’s core was a vision to enrich Moldova’s educational ecosystem by fostering international collaboration, introducing innovative teaching practices, and expanding Moldovan educators’ engagement through global partnerships.

250 Moldovian educators taking pictures at the end of the conference.

Reframing Moldovan Education Through Global Collaboration

The iEARN Global Education Conference served as a platform for knowledge exchange and the cultivation of international relationships. The event emphasized Moldova’s ambition to modernize its educational practices by aligning with global trends. Participants discussed how Moldovan educators can actively contribute to the international educational community, improving student learning experiences and fostering global citizenship.

The opening video address from Melissa Rowker, Director of Global Education at iEARN-USA, stressed the transformative power of global networks, highlighting that cross-border collaboration allows educators to create more meaningful learning experiences and address common challenges. This message underscored the conference’s objective of integrating international perspectives into daily teaching practices.

iEARN Moldova Greeting: Melissa Rowker, Director of Global Education at iEARN-USA welcomes the iEARN-Moldova community.

Following this, Daniela Munca-Aftenev, Deputy Chief of the Chișinău Municipal Department of Education, Youth and Sport, illustrated how Moldova’s educational framework can synergize with iEARN’s global projects, providing students with skills and intercultural competencies essential in today’s interconnected world.

Daniela Munca- Aftenev, Deputy Chief of the Chișinău Municipal Department of Education, Youth and Sport presenting

The presentation of Olga Morozan, iEARN Moldova Country Coordinator emphasized the expanding opportunities for Moldovan educators through iEARN, such as professional development, international exchanges, and mentorships. These resources help teachers stay aligned with global educational trends, improving their skills and student outcomes. The impact of global collaboration fosters innovation and cooperation, benefiting both teachers and students alike.

Olga Morozan, iEARN-Moldova Country Coordinator presenting the iEARN Teachers’ Guide

 

iEARN Projects: Catalysts for Global Learning

The conference showcased several impactful iEARN projects that the 7 most active Moldovan teachers have already integrated into their classrooms. These projects demonstrate how international collaboration can yield tangible educational benefits by providing students with the opportunity to explore global issues, enhance digital skills, and develop cross-cultural understanding.

One such project, “One Day in Life,” encourages students from Nisporeni to document and share a day in their lives with peers worldwide, linking personal experiences to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This project fosters global empathy and teaches students to view the world through a shared lens of responsibility.

Another project, “My Hero,” engages students from Mihai Eminescu Lyceum from Edinet in storytelling, allowing them to share stories of individuals who inspire them. This initiative promotes cultural pride and teaches students the importance of values like resilience and compassion. The “Places and Perspectives” project further enriches the same students’ cultural knowledge through the exchange of personal experiences, fostering a greater appreciation for diverse cultural identities.

Most active iEARN-Moldova educators sharing their best practices

The conference also highlighted the role of young people in community service and global activism, as evidenced by their involvement in the Global Youth Service Day. For example, Moldovan students from Balti municipality participating in this initiative took on leadership roles, addressing local challenges, while simultaneously learning about the importance of global solidarity.

Other significant projects showcased by 2 iEARN educators from Drochia and Ungheni districts included initiatives that promote intercultural dialogue and digital citizenship, crucial in preparing students to navigate the digital landscape with ethical awareness. Such projects ensure that Moldovan students are not only prepared for future academic challenges but also equipped to become responsible digital citizens.

Cornelia Platon’s Invitation: Connecting Cultures Through “Folk Costumes Around the Globe”

A significant highlight of the conference was the invitation from Cornelia Platon, iEARN-Romania Country Representative, who warmly encouraged Moldovan educators to participate in the “Folk Costumes Around the Globe” project. Cornelia spoke passionately about preserving and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of traditional folk costumes from different countries. She highlighted how the project serves as a powerful tool for exploring national identity and fostering cross-cultural respect.

Cornelia Platon, iEARN-Romanina Country Coordinator inviting Moldovan educators to join the “Folk Costumes Around the Globe” project.

Through virtual exhibitions and exchanges, this initiative allows students to share the beauty and significance of their traditional garments while learning about the cultural expressions of others. This project represents a bridge between cultural appreciation and global understanding, and many Moldovan teachers were eager to participate.

The Conference was transmitted online in two parts  (Part 1 and Part 2) reaching out to more people willing to explore new global learning opportunities from the country and abroad. 

A New Educational Frontier: Moldovan Teachers Reflect

As the conference concluded, participants reflected on the wealth of ideas and strategies shared, with many educators expressing their renewed enthusiasm for joining the iEARN community and transforming their teaching practices. The conference opened new pathways for professional growth, providing access to international networks that could enhance the learning environment for Moldovan students.

The discussions surrounding cross-border collaboration and shared learning experiences resonated deeply with the participants, who recognized that global education is crucial for preparing students to thrive in today’s interconnected world. As one teacher commented, “Our classrooms no longer exist in isolation—our students are part of a global society, and it is our responsibility to equip them with the tools to succeed.”

Moldovan teachers ready to access the iEARN global learning path.

As Moldova continues to navigate educational reform, conferences like this provide crucial opportunities for reflection and collaboration, offering a vision of education that transcends geographical borders. Through global connections and the adoption of iEARN projects, Moldovan educators are poised to guide the next generation toward a future defined by collaboration, intercultural understanding, and global responsibility.

My Journey with iEARN Storytelling for Social Change: Empowering Algerian Students through Global Exchange

My Journey with iEARN Storytelling for Social Change: Empowering Algerian Students through Global Exchange

by | Oct 22, 2024 | News

Mrs. Hafsa Hadj Boulenouar
Algerian Ministry of National Education

My name is Hafsa Hadj Boulenouar, a secondary school English language teacher from Algeria, and this is my story of participating in the iEARN Storytelling for Social Change program.

I first came across this opportunity through a post, calling for teachers from the western region of Algeria. As a passionate educator and firm believer in the power of international exchanges, I applied immediately, excited about the chance to connect my students with the global community.

The program began with an engaging two-day, in-person training session led by iEARN Algeria’s Country Coordinator, K. Mezough, and Project Facilitator, M. Louznadji. Alongside nine other teachers from across the region, we were introduced to the program’s objectives and activities. Their leadership provided us with a clear vision of the program’s goals, and I
felt both prepared and motivated to embark on this unique educational journey. We were also equipped with essential tools such as agendas, pens, T-shirts, and USB drives to ensure smooth access to the virtual resources, as internet connectivity is often a challenge.

After returning to my city, I was determined to provide my students with the same enriching experience. I selected 10 highly motivated students, prioritizing those with access to a phone or laptop and an internet connection, since the course was conducted virtually. These students displayed exceptional dedication, and it was a pleasure to guide them through the program.

The Storytelling for Social Change virtual exchange spanned seven weeks, from October 2, 2023, to November 13, 2023. The 14-hour course included a combination of instructor-led Zoom meetings and asynchronous activities on the iEARN Collaboration Centre platform. Each week introduced a new theme, ranging from the art of storytelling and global goals to visual storytelling, story development, and video production. Through this program, both my students and I deepened our understanding of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), learned to communicate effectively with diverse audiences, and explored how storytelling can be a powerful tool for social change.

We met virtually each Friday on Zoom and stayed connected through a WhatsApp group I created for ongoing support. Despite the lack of a library or meeting space at our school, we overcame these challenges by gathering on Tuesday afternoons for face-to-face discussions and brainstorming sessions. I witnessed firsthand how my student’s speaking, writing, and leadership skills flourished. Not only did they learn to use tools like Zoom, but they also discovered how to leverage the internet for educational purposes. Most importantly, they learned to tolerate differences, respecting diverse perspectives, and realized that they could truly be agents of change within their communities.

Each student connected their personal passions and concerns to a specific Sustainable Development Goal (SDG), creating a meaningful link between local challenges and global objectives. Yebdri, driven by her passion for women’s rights, focused on SDG 5: Gender Equality, highlighting the importance of equal opportunities for girls in Algeria. Boudghene, Mahmoudi, and Boumediene, deeply concerned about environmental issues, selected SDG 13: Climate Action, addressing the urgent problem of climate change. Tchouar and Ameri, inspired by their love for education, focused on SDG 4: Quality Education, advocating for better resources and access to education. Malak, envisioning a more sustainable urban future, worked on SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. Fatima, passionate about public health, concentrated on SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, exploring healthcare challenges in her community. Finally, Saidi, driven by the need for economic growth, focused on SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, aiming to create better job opportunities and economic stability. Unfortunately, one student had to withdraw from the course due to health issues, but the remaining students continued with determination, each making meaningful contributions.

Together, they identified local challenges, aligned them with the global SDGs, and proposed solutions through their projects. By the end of the course, these students not only produced impressive storytelling videos but also gained confidence in their English language skills, cultural competence, and leadership potential.

The program culminated in an in-person showcase, where the students proudly presented their SDG projects to an audience of teachers, parents, school administrators, and community members. It was a moment of immense pride—not just for me, but for the students who represented our school and Algeria on a global stage.

In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend the iEARN Storytelling for Social Change program to both educators and students. This program provides a rare and invaluable opportunity for intercultural exchange, particularly within Algeria’s public education sector, where such initiatives are scarce and desperately needed.

My only suggestion for future iterations would be to explore possibilities for in-person exchanges, as I firmly believe that face-to-face interactions would further enrich the experience and deepen connections among participants.

This program has profoundly inspired my students to dream bigger, act locally, and think globally. It has also reaffirmed my belief in the transformative power of storytelling to create lasting social change.

I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Stevens Initiative and the U.S. Department of State for making this remarkable program possible. Their commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding and collaboration is not only commendable but essential for nurturing a generation of global citizens who are equipped to tackle the challenges of our interconnected world. Thank you for your support and vision in empowering young minds through the art of storytelling!

iEARN-USA’s Storytelling for Social Change virtual program is funded by the Stevens Initiative, which is housed at the Aspen Institute and is supported by the United States Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. To learn more about iEARN-USA and how to join this or other virtual exchange programs, visit https://projects.us.iearn.org/.