Globalization in Education
Globalization: It is a process of coagulating/integrating thoughts views, ideas from around the world.
The term ‘Globalization’ represents the international system that is shaping most societies today. Most observers believe that the ability to harness the best from globalization and avoid the bad lies in the cultivation and acceptance of knowledge and cultures.
Technology is an active proponent of bringing globalization in education. It is being actively promoted through curriculum reforms and funding policies around the world as the way to facilitate equity and globalize educational opportunities. With the use of technology, it is expected that better education opportunities through globalization will lead to improved economics in the near future. A brilliant example is the advent of smart classrooms in the schools.
Twinning Projects: In the 20th century, many developing countries have experienced growth in educational reforms and methodologies. The ideas and process of teaching went through a change because of globalization. Some believe that this process is an invaluable opportunity for the people of developing countries to raise their skills and standard of education, others fear that it is merely a modern version of culture which will lead to westernization. A major concept are the ‘Twinning Projects‘ between one Western and non- western university which in turn improves the skills and capabilities of people receiving it. The modern example of these kind of projects are the exchange programs run by many leading universities across the world where the students and teachers are sent from one nation to the other to understand different cultures and exchange ideas. Though the scenario has changed now, as the exchange programs are not limited to only western countries and have spread across the globe. There are multiple benefits of these kinds of programs.
Educational
Personal
Education is undergoing constant changes under the effects of Globalization. The effects of Globalization on education has brought rapid developments in technology, and communications are foreseeing changes within school systems across the world as ideas, values and knowledge, changing the roles of students and teachers creating an information based society. The introduction of foreign language courses in middle schools is a very good example in this regard.
Education hence, is becoming a more of a training program where the development of knowledge and skills is taught and applied to competitive market where it is treated as a trading commodity. Education is becoming a must as it provides better employment thereby ensuring a better lifestyle which in turn leads to power and status.
Impact of globalization on education creates both challenges and opportunities. Each and every culture and society must be equally treated with due respect, as it is not moving towards westernization, rather they have their own culture and practices which are unique. They have their own approaches and teaching mechanics. Hence we can say Globalization not only helps us to educate better but also helps us in reaching its ultimate purpose for a better living.
Reference : http://wep.org.au/info/student-exchange-benefits
The Educators, India
