Using Virtual Exchange to Connect Globally

Using Virtual Exchange to Connect Globally

by Dr. Robbie Higdon

As part of an ongoing professional development initiative begun in March 2019 by Dr. Robbie Higdon, teachers at Harrisonburg High School and Coláiste Chú Chulainn (CCC) in Dundalk, Ireland have been collaborating to develop a series of problem-based instructional modules. The first module centers on the use of renewable energy resources within Ireland and the United States. Within this module, students conduct research, formulate questions, and develop possible alternative approaches. Then, students present their findings and ask questions via virtual exchanges.  On January 25, Harrisonburg High School STEM Academy teachers Andy Jackson and Seth Shantz had their students engage with students at CCC centered on the use of nuclear energy resources. During this exchange, students from both schools posed questions to why nuclear energy is being used in the United States yet banned in many European countries. This was the second video exchange in the 2021-2022 academic year between students at these two schools.  Plans are being made to hold a final video exchange between the two schools for students to present the summary of their findings.