Developing Preservice Teachers' Global Understanding through Computer-Mediated Communication Technology

Source: Teaching and Teacher Education, Volume 25, Issue 5, pages 617-625 (July 2009).

This study investigates preservice teachers' conceptual understanding of global education. Data were collected subsequent to participation in an asynchronous web-based multinational project to discuss issues related to cultural diversity and global challenges. The data included 59 preservice teachers' online messages and reflective essays. Six perspectives emerged from this inquiry: global education as cultural learning and understanding, fostering tolerance, addressing global issues, teaching global connections and collaborations, promoting peace, and critical understanding of global issues and events. The findings suggest that the online discussion provided a unique opportunity for participants to interact with teachers and students from different countries in an authentic context.