A Virtual Adventure Between a U.S. and South Korean Elementary School

In an era where technology has made the world a smaller place, two elementary school classes from opposite ends of the globe embarked on a thrilling virtual adventure by sharing each other's special places in their countries. On December 6th, the classrooms, one on the West Coast of the United States and the other nestled in central South Korea, came together for an enriching exchange that overcame the obstacle of distance. The journey began with the students introducing themselves live through video, each bubbling with excitement and curiosity. The U.S. students proudly showcased their classroom’s “Hello from California” banner, while the South Korean counterparts shared glimpses of their vibrant and bustling schools. 

One of the highlights of this virtual exchange was when both classes took turns presenting special places in their respective countries. With infectious enthusiasm, U.S. students shared the enchanting wonders of the Great Wolf Lodge, the historical Thomas Griswold House in Covina, the iconic In-n-Out Burger, and the heartwarming environment of their elementary school. A U.S. student shared, “I think Great Wolf Lodge is a fun and energetic place. It’s special because this place is really fun and it is a place I can enjoy with my family.” Meanwhile, the South Korean students transported their American friends from the thrilling rides of Lotte World to the sweet aromas of Seongsim Dang, a famous bakery in Daejeon, Korea. A Korean student shared, “I’m proud to have such a famous place in my city.” Continuing the virtual field trip around Korea, students described the mesmerizing underwater world of COEX Aquarium. The international partners felt proud to share their special places with IVECA friends.

As the virtual international exchange ended, the students on both ends of the connection felt a profound sense of camaraderie. After the presentations had finished, a U.S. student read aloud their farewell letter. “IVECA was really interesting and was more than I expected when I first joined! I really enjoy meeting new people from around the world and learning about their culture, but since I joined IVECA, learning about South Korea’s interesting culture, I’m actually happy that I finally got to know you…THANK YOU!!!” The world suddenly felt a little smaller, and the bonds of friendship created during this delightful exchange will leave an impact for a lifetime. In a world filled with possibilities, these young minds have proven that even the smallest gestures of connection can inspire joy capable of resonating across continents. The virtual journey between these two elementary schools serves as a testament to the power of education, curiosity, and the universal language of happiness.

#IVECA #LiveClass #InterculturalExchange #GlobalCitizenshipEducation #InterculturalEducation #21stCenturyEducation #ElementarySchools 

Korean and American Students Explore Cultural Treasures

Students from Gwanpyeong and Jijok Middle Schools in Korea, and their peers from St. Paul Public School in the United States came together on November 23 and December 7 for two interactive Live Class sessions. Special guests from IVECA alumni and educators were invited, and IVECA youth representatives from Lebanon, Morocco and the United States contributed to the cultural richness of these gatherings. This virtual rendezvous served as a conduit for these young minds to exchange views on their cherished traditions and share insights in preserving the cultural heritage of their home countries.

Korean students passionately presented a glimpse into their country's rich heritage. They introduced the enchanting world of Korean traditional games like Jwibulnori during the Lunar New Year, adorned in exquisite Hanbok attire, while also exploring the world of K-dramas that have captured global audiences by depicting universal aspects of everyday life and societal challenges. Additionally, they showcased the variety and flavors of Korean cuisine, enticing participants with culinary delights deeply rooted in Korean historical significance. Highlighting the international influence of their cultural treasures, particularly culinary arts, in fostering social cohesion, a Korean student suggested, “We should introduce where these foods come from, and add some menus which are adaptable to foreigners and take part in some festivals to have a chance to spread our foods.”

In the gathering on the American side, students eagerly demonstrated facets of their cultural identity. From the pulse-racing enthusiasm surrounding American sports to the sleek and iconic allure of American muscle cars, the presentations resonated with the students’ pride in their legacy. They also illuminated the important role of the Thanksgiving practice in American cultural and historical narrative, contributing to a global collage and appreciation of the unique elements that shape American society. IVECA’s U.S. alumnus shared his insight, “Our cultures reflect the beauty and diversity of our countries. Seeing the uniqueness that our cultures bring to the table can allow us to create global change. Starting in our own communities, together we can grow our impact on a global scale aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.”

Through the Live Classes, students embraced diverse and similar cultures and felt the importance of international communications and mutual respect while preserving and valuing cultural legacies. An American student recognized differences in cuisine while acknowledging shared tastes in music and movies, “We wouldn’t be able to talk to people from other countries on any other platform. I learned [through IVECA] that we have some differences like with food, but we actually listen to a lot of the same music and watch the same movies.” These sessions underline diversity as a bridge towards a more cohesive and empathetic world community as students have laid the groundwork for a future where cultural treasures are not just explored but valued and integrated into a collective world story.

“It's great that we can exchange our culture and learn more about your culture. These virtual sessions promise to be an enriching experience, fostering cultural understanding and friendships that transcend borders. I'm looking forward to the chance to collaborate and learn from each other more,” said a Korean student reflecting on his semester-long experience.

#IVECA #InterculturalExchange #GlobalEducation #GlobalCitizenship #Cultures #VirtualExchange #21stCenturyEducation #VirtualExchange

Exploring Global Issues Locally: A Journey of Collaboration between Tunisia and South Korea

IVECA, a dynamic platform fostering global connections through virtual exchanges, has once again ignited the flame of collaboration. This time, students from Gyeongshin High School in Daegu, South Korea, and the International School of Tunis in Tunis, Tunisia, embarked on a transformative journey from October to December, exploring solutions to locally observed global challenges (“glocal” issues) through the lens of volunteerism.

In this immersive experience, students delved into major global challenges inspired by the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Their mission was clear: research global challenges tied to their chosen SDG, connect these issues to their local communities and present their findings creatively. Korean students chose to look into the status of SDG 10 on Reduced Inequalities, SDG 8 on Decent Work and Employment, SDG 3 on Health and Wellbeing, and SDG 14 on Life Below Water. Tunisian students, given their Mediterranean location, focused entirely on SDG 14, addressing the different facets of the problem, such as ocean acidification, abyssal pollution, and the water crisis.

During the Live Class, students turned awareness into action. Returning to the “glocal” issues they explored earlier, each group crafted grassroots initiatives to address challenges locally. To address inequalities, Korean students proposed a program that would allow people to experience life through the lens of people with disabilities to raise awareness about the issue. To address SDG 8, specifically related to foreign workers, students built a volunteer program aimed at raising awareness about the issue and creating campaigns advocating for the prohibition of discrimination. Tackling health inequality, another group created a program where medical volunteers visit marginalized areas to provide healthcare and information. Finally, to tackle marine pollution,  students suggested a campaign for waste sorting, highlighting the important classifications of waste.

To address the water shortage crisis, Tunisian students proposed a water desalination program that aims to raise funds for the implementation of additional facilities locally and worldwide. Another group shared a program aimed at raising awareness about practical ways to preserve water. To address the ocean acidification issue, Tunisian students created “Oceansavers Collective” an organization that would raise awareness about reducing our carbon dioxide footprint and would plant trees with their collected funds to reduce the PH levels of our seas. Finally, while presenting on abyssal pollution, students created a program that contributed to the removal of debris through beach cleanups, cleanup dives, and submarine drone usage.

As the session drew to a close, heartfelt farewell messages echoed the impact of this cross-cultural collaboration. Tunisian students expressed gratitude for the rich experience that taught them about social and environmental issues and the importance of partnerships and diverse perspectives. “It taught us about social and environmental issues that both countries are going through. Through the different tasks we've learned the importance of partnerships, and how the exchange of opinions and an external point of view is important for one's work,” they added. Korean students reflected on the eye-opening experience of connecting with global peers and recognizing the shared responsibility for solving common problems, “through this, we agreed that the world is united and that we are all responsible for global problems to be solved.” 

The Live Class not only showcased these initiatives but also celebrated cultural diversity. Tunisian students shared the art of preparing a traditional appetizer known as “brik,” and Korean students infused their virtual space with the energy of a K-pop dance performance.

The Live Class between Tunisian and Korean students demonstrated the power of virtual exchanges between the presentations, discussions, and performances. The impact on students extends beyond the tangible outcomes of projects. It's a profound shift in mindset, a growth that permeates different aspects of their lives. It's a realization that global problems demand collective solutions, and through platforms like IVECA, they are not just students but global citizens ready to participate in solving the world's challenges. IVECA continues to be a beacon, connecting students across borders, fostering understanding, and sowing the seeds of a better, more interconnected world.

#IVECA #VirtualExchange #Glocalization #GCED #InterculturalCompetence #Tunisia #SouthKorea #SDGs #21stCenturyEducation