Abstract:

This presentation reports on the Kids Connect Project - An international distance learning project which has facilitated a language and cultural exchange between elementary schools located in Baltimore, MD (USA) and Camerano, Italy since 2007. Supported by the Loyola University Maryland (USA), the project has created an international learning community of students and teachers which includes the formation and maintenance of a Kids Connect Blackboard© site, which provides for the incorporation of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles in the elementary school classroom, with an international audience.

The project consists of a literacy based-technology curriculum that provides for the creation of instructional digital videos, PowerPoint Presentations, website development, wikis, and blogs shared between students, teachers, and specialists at both schools. The electronic learning site also facilitates professional development opportunities through the creation and posting of technology tutorials at differentiated levels, teacher resources, and pedagogical strategies. The establishment of this rich electronic learning community has provided the infrastructure to expediently exchange resources and ideas that maximize knowledge gained from this cultural exchange for students and teachers.

In support of this project, Loyola University Maryland has created a collaborative opportunity for undergraduate students in education who participate in a course entitled, Improved Access to the Curriculum for all Students to engage in field-service experiences in the Baltimore elementary school. As part of their course requirements, students create podcasts to offer technical assistance in the areas of technology based instruction and best practices in improving access to curriculum materials utilizing UDL principles. This provides students with an opportunity to participate in the practical application of distance learning and quality web-based instruction.

The Kids Connect Project strives to provide practical applications for Universal Design of Learning principles in an international environment, thereby modernizing and expanding programs for world language teachers. Through a technology-infused, literacy-based international exchange program, teachers gain the global communication skills needed to function in an international community of learners. Students acquire a comfortable level of technology skills in order to foster communication with students overseas; this international communication is the gateway for students to develop a culturally accepting attitude.