Solving Global Problems - U.S. Department of State

This course is an offering of the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

DESCRIPTION

Problem solving ignites students’ critical thinking and creativity. Problem solving teaches students how to apply knowledge and skills to complex problems and it empowers students to make a difference in the world.  Global competence equips students with the skills, knowledge, and attitudes to be successful in today’s interconnected world.

Through this course educators will be equipped with an understanding of what problem-driven learning is and how to apply it in their classrooms, whether that is in person or virtually. This introductory course is designed for an audience of busy professionals who are curious about problem-driven learning and motivated to engage their students with real challenges. Educators will explore how problem-driven learning can be applied across content areas and grade levels. One of the most challenging parts can be getting started. This course will provide practical ideas for connecting problem-driven learning to standards and resources to apply in your practice.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

Participants in this course will:

1. Understand the foundations of problem-driven learning,
2. Connect problem-driven learning with global competence,
3. Dispel myths of problem and project-based learning and,
4. Begin to explore how to apply problem-driven learning in their classrooms by harnessing global competencies.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING THE COURSE

Educators can expect to participate in the following: reading and videos, multi-media quizzes, video chats, webinars, discussion boards, and reflections. Educators are encouraged to apply practical strategies from the module in their classrooms and schools. Throughout the course educators will engage in discussion boards where they will share their reflections, questions, and resources. Upon completion of the course educators will receive a U.S. Department of State Global Problem-Solving Educator certificate noting 4.5 hours of professional learning. Educators will also have access to the Global Problem-Solving Educator badge that can be used in email signatures and professional profiles.

This is an open self-paced course, so educators will have flexibility to complete the course on their own timeline. There are three modules within the course and each module is projected to take 1.5 hours to complete. Participants will join discussion groups upon signing up for the course. To stay on pace in the course it is recommended that educators complete one module per week, however, educators are encouraged to work within their schedule. 

This course is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and administered by IREX.