By Maddi Filutze, Greenheart Exchange, Program Support Coordinator
Cross-cultural Activities Enrich the U.S. Classrooms
Each year, international teachers are required to complete two cross-cultural activities with their students. The aim of each activity is to expose American students to their teacher’s culture, as well as provide an opportunity for American students to personally connect with international students overseas. These exchanges foster mutual understanding between individuals of different backgrounds.
Greenheart Teachers Share Unique Perspectives with their Host Community
It is noteworthy that exchange teachers not only share their culture with the students, but with their colleagues too. This year, many teachers showcased their culture by sharing food. Marcela Nelmida, who prepared local dishes from the Philippines, said, “I explained how each dish is commonly made, its origins, and its role in Filipino gatherings and celebrations. Additionally, I highlighted the unique flavors and influences that shape Filipino cuisine, such as the blend of Spanish, Chinese, and indigenous culinary traditions. Through these discussions, our colleagues gained a deeper appreciation of Filipino food and its importance in fostering togetherness.”
Cultural Exchange Builds Bridges of Understanding
In another activity, Janice Rojas from the Philippines used Black History Month as an opportunity to educate her students on Filipino heroes, and explained, “Participants gained insight into the shared struggles and triumphs of historical figures who fought for freedom and equality in both cultures… By engaging in discussions and interactive activities, attendees became more aware of the importance of cultural diversity and historical connections. This experience encouraged them to embrace different perspectives and recognize the universal themes of resilience, identity, and social justice.”
Celebrating Valentine’s Day and Learning a New Language!
Many Greenheart teachers also facilitated exchanges between their students in the United States with students in their home country. This Valentine’s Day, Glaiza Generalao’s students from the USA and the Philippines exchanged Valentine’s Day Cards with each other. She noted, “Students learned that despite being from diverse backgrounds, people often share similar values when it comes to showing affection and love.”
Lizheng Ma, a Chinese language teacher, also created an opportunity for her students in the USA to communicate directly with students from China. In her “Oral Pen Pal” activity, students recorded themselves speaking Chinese to each other. Not only did the American students get the opportunity to practice their Chinese with locals, but they were able to build friendships across the globe as well.
Some teachers are even able to set up live calls with international students, despite the time difference. For instance, Williams Atakora Ntiri from Ghana prepared a virtual group call with his students in the US and in Ghana. The students from Ghana taught the American students about weaving. Williams said It was an opportunity to showcase traditional, colorful Ghanaian Kente cloth, Ghanaian Smock (Fugu), baskets, and other handcrafted items which the students and teachers were very happy to see.
Is your school ready to host highly qualified international educators to contribute to the learning experience of your students and communities? Visit HostGreenheartTeachers.org to apply to host today.
Did you know? If your school participates in one or more of Greenheart’s cultural exchange programs, your school will be eligible for up to $4,000 in grants as a Greenheart School. Details at GreenheartSchools.org.