There are a number of reasons pen pals experiences benefit teachers, students, schools, and both communities.
Our top ten reasons we are inspired to connect people across the globe are:
1.) Cultural Awareness – We live in a world filled with an incredible number of unique individuals, beautiful cultures, and ways of life. An understanding of the value of such diversity is imperative to a world citizen.
2.) Technology Integration – We redefine the term “Common Knowledge” on a daily basis. As our society becomes more technologically advanced, it becomes essential for people to have the technological skills to succeed.
3.) Professional Development – Teachers acquire the technological skills that their students will need to be taught. These tools teachers will not only be useful in the CCC program but in future classes as well.
4.) Research-Based Learning – Rather than gathering information from a textbook, students are using primary sources to answer questions that they find interesting.
5.) Team Building Skills – Students work together to increase the common knowledge of the classroom during their research projects. This allows a student to recognize personal strengths they can share for the good of the group.
6.) Multilingual education and communication – The benefits of learning a new language are almost infinite. Language can open doors and create connections.
7.) Higher Level thinking skills – CCC promotes open communication, understanding, and fairness, all important skills to practice and master.
8.) Common Core Standards – Using these Standards results in a common structure and level of expectation in our English curriculum, whether the teacher is in Allentown or Turrialba. This also assists in gathering measurable assessment data.
9.) Preparation for an International Business World – As the global economy continues to grow, it is imperative to understand how international business operates. Students gain the necessary skills to communicate and collaborate with people around the world.
10.) Taking Ownership in Learning – According to the ASCD (Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development), a learner is more passionate about a topic they choose to study. Combining student ownership and literacy leads to meaningful student involvement.
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