Rural kids cast digital eyes world-wide
A high-tech program is bringing Asian cultures to outback kids.
School children from regional areas who do not have the opportunity to travel overseas are benefitting from the Asia ConneXions program.
The program connects Australian schools with classrooms in Korea, Japan, China, Indonesia, and India through high definition videoconferencing.
It helps develop Asian language skills and understanding of Asian cultures for kids who otherwise would barely experience either.
Under the program - administered by the University of New England - primary students connect via videoconferencing technology with their Asian counterparts about twenty times a year.
Athol Road Primary School teacher Ilknur Moore says the partnership with a Korean school has provided global connections for Athol students.
“The students develop confidence in public speaking, inquiry-based learning skills and intercultural understanding of different cultures.”
Dr Myung-sook Auh says’ videoconferencing with Asian students helps Australian students develop global thinking by putting them the global context.
“When Australian students grow up learning about Asian cultures and languages, they are likely to be better prepared for job opportunities in Asia-related companies in Australia and in Asia.”