My “Idea Worth Spreading” – #TEDxPerth 2013

 

A few days ago, I attended my second TEDx Perth, an ideas forum which I have come to love for its’ sheer energy, enthusiasm, and stories. I listened to stories from doctors, a mountaineer, a sustainability guru, and the list goes on … Humble stories which inspired many.

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But, perhaps the most important, and special moment of the day, was when I was given the opportunity (with 10 others), to come on stage and pitch my “30 Second Idea Worth Spreading” …

It just wasn’t (and isn’t) possible to share my passion for global education and collaboration in under 30 seconds, but I took a couple of deep breaths (first time I’ve been scared stiff in front of a – 700 strong – audience!), and did my best …

Without quoting what I said verbatim, the essence of the message is simple …

I believe that children (and teachers) learn best when they “learn with the world, not just about it” … When they are given the opportunity to meet and build meaningful collaborative learning relationships with children from other countries, religions, and cultures.

Our global connections change us, as learners, and as educators. They teach us to care. They teach us to respect difference, and seek to build bridges across cultures. We learn to care about our environment and our community, both local and global. 

As global educators, we’re starting a journey with our students, one that has the potential to take us to places we’d never dreamed of … 

It’s a journey worth taking, and I passionately believe that this truly is “an idea worth spreading” …

Thank you to the TEDx Perth team for putting on a truly amazing event, and for providing us with the opportunity to share our stories and ideas with the world.  I hope to see you next year 🙂

Photo by @RS_au

Photo by @RS_au

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