Collaborative Online International Learning in Chemistry Classes at College and High School Levels

Abstract

Intercultural competencies and ability to work with team members from diverse backgrounds are important skills in many lines of work including STEM fields. Despite its importance, inclusion of cultural topics in science classes is rare and has often been viewed as “out of context.” Students usually gain these experiences from study abroad programs. However, such learning opportunities are not available for all students due to barriers such as financial, time, rigid curriculum, and safety issues. Internationalization at home is a way to globalize the classroom and give students intercultural working experience at low to no cost. Here, collaborative assignments used in chemistry classrooms to connect US and Thai students and engage them in chemistry topics are presented. Best practices and points to consider when implementing the strategies based on perspectives of students and class instructors at college and at high school levels are discussed.

Presenters

Supaporn Kradtap Hartwell
Professor, Chemistry, Xavier University - Cincinnati, OH, Ohio, United States

Leslie Porter
Chemistry Teacher, Science, Purcell Marian High School, Ohio, United States

Pattama Yanu
Chemitry teacher, Faculty of Education, Chiang Mai University Demonstration School, Thailand

Kanchana Watla Iad
Chemistry lecturer, School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand

Details

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation in a Themed Session

Theme

2024 Special Focus—The Converging Challenges for Inclusive Education: Intercultural Competences and Digital Literacies in Global Contexts

KEYWORDS

CHEMISTRY, INTERCULTURAL LEARNING, COLLABORATIVE ONLINE INTERNATIONAL LEARNING