Global Connections: Preparing Students for a Sustainable Future
At Maple Bear, we believe that ecological competency is just as critical as literacy, numeracy, and personal growth. Understanding our impact on the environment and making responsible choices is an essential part of preparing students for the future.
To address these global challenges at the school level, our academic team designed the Global Connections program – an innovative curriculum-based program that brings students together from across the globe, fostering cross-cultural collaboration, inquiry-based learning, and real-world problem-solving.
A FRESH RELAUNCH WITH NEW IDEAS FOR MORE AGE LEVELS
Initially launched in 2021 while the world was sheltered in place due to the pandemic, Global Connections has evolved with brand-new sustainability-related projects. (Learn more about the original launch.)
A new feature of the program is the inclusion of the Inner Development Goals (IDGs) within each project. The IDGs are a framework that includes the five “inner skills”, or domains needed to support sustainable development: Being, Thinking, Relating, Collaborating and Acting.
We have also expanded the programming to include the kindergarten years to Grade 8, so students from a wide range of ages will benefit from this signature Maple Bear program.
So, what is Global Connections?
There are four key pillars that form the foundation for the program:
1. THINK GLOBAL: LEARNING BEYOND BORDERS
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a framework for addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges, from climate change to quality education.
Through Global Connections, Maple Bear students engage with these goals, gaining a deep understanding of global issues and their impact on communities worldwide.
2. ACT LOCAL: APPLYING GLOBAL LESSONS TO LOCAL CHALLENGES
Students don’t just learn about global issues—they see how they connect to their own communities. By working on projects aligned with the SDGs, students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, learning how they can take action to make a difference right where they live.
3. GROW PERSONALLY: BUILDING INNER STRENGTH
Through the Inner Development Goals (IDGs) students strengthen key skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, and leadership. Inquiry-based learning is at the heart of Global Connections, encouraging students to ask meaningful questions, explore diverse perspectives, and develop a lifelong curiosity for the world around them.
4. COLLABORATE GLOBALLY: REAL-WORLD IMPACT THROUGH CONNECTION
One of the most exciting aspects of Global Connections is the opportunity for international collaboration. Partner schools from different countries work together on joint projects, fostering teamwork and cultural exchange. Whether through live discussions, video exchanges, or collaborative assignments, students experience the power of learning with and from their peers around the world.
STRENGTHENS ENGLISH LANGUAGE SKILLS AND CULTURAL COMPETENCE
Maple Bear students develop cultural competence, empathy, and cross-cultural communication skills by engaging with students from diverse backgrounds. They gain firsthand experience in navigating different perspectives, an essential skill in today’s globalized world.
The projects they work on also create authentic opportunities for students to practice English through meaningful communication. When paired with a school where English is not the first language, students use English as the common medium for effective collaboration.
The virtual exchanges create meaningful relationships with peers from different regions – a wonderful quality of global citizenship.
SEAMLESSLY EXTENDING THE MAPLE BEAR CURRICULUM & PEDAGOGY
Global Connections enhances the Maple Bear learning experience by integrating real-world collaboration, cultural exchange, and inquiry-based learning. It provides students with opportunities to apply their knowledge beyond the classroom while staying aligned with Maple Bear’s proven pedagogical approach.
INSPIRING GLOBAL CITIZENS & CHANGEMAKERS
More than just a program, Global Connections empowers students to think beyond borders, take meaningful action, and embrace their role as global citizens. By working with peers worldwide, students develop the skills and mindset needed to drive positive change in their communities and beyond.
CONTACT YOUR SCHOOL TO PARTICIPATE!
Global Connections provides Maple Bear students an authentic, engaging, and impactful way to learn, grow, and contribute to a better future.
To learn more about how your student can participate, please contact your local Maple Bear school for more information!
