Page 56 - THE ONTARIO CURRICULUM, GRADES 9–12 | Classical Studies and International Languages

THE ONTARIO CURRICULUM, GRADES 9–12 | Classical Studies and International Languages
INTERNATIONALIZING THE CURRICULUM THROUGH INTERNATIONAL
EDUCATION
As the world becomes more interconnected, socially and economically, it is crucial for Ontario students to develop the skills, knowledge, attitudes, and attributes needed to become active and successful global citizens. International education exposes Ontario students to different cultures, languages, and ways of thinking, and fosters the development of global competencies that students need to navigate diverse cultures and societies. Ontario’s Strategy for K–12 International Education (2015) guides and supports Ontario educators in “internationalizing” the curriculum and the learning environment – that is, enhancing student learning through the integration of international, intercultural, and/or global perspectives, cultures, and experiences. The strategy presents a set of overarching goals for international education in Ontario schools, and is available on the ministry website, at www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/policyfunding/strategyK12.pdf.
The classical studies and international languages curriculum provides opportunities
to extend the classroom experience into a global context. Internationalized learning environments allow students to cultivate meaningful interactions with international students in Ontario and/or through exchange experiences abroad. There are more
ways than ever before to reach out to other parts of the world. Technology provides opportunities to connect students to their counterparts around the world through direct communication between students and classrooms. As students benefit from opportunities to build their understanding of other cultures through personal experiences, they will be better equipped to challenge assumptions based on stereotypes and learn to see beyond their differences, cultivating intercultural friendships and networks that will continue beyond their school years.
The development of second- and third-language skills not only strengthens students’ problem-solving, reasoning, and creative thinking skills, but is a key global competency that gives students greater access to diverse cultures and perspectives. Knowing a language affords insight into, and a broader understanding of, the related culture and its history and worldview. Developing students’ language skills provides educators with opportunities to integrate social and cultural contexts into their classroom program and to involve their international students as a valuable resource. This in turn will help international students to become more involved in school life and develop confidence in forming relationships with their Ontario classmates. International languages programs also provide opportunities to involve parents, school administrators, and community support networks in order to enrich the classroom program with global perspectives and contexts.
THE ROLE OF THE SCHOOL LIBRARY IN THE CLASSICAL STUDIES AND
INTERNATIONAL LANGUAGES PROGRAM
The school library program can help build and transform students’ knowledge in order to support lifelong learning in our information- and knowledge-based society. The school library program supports student success across the classical studies and international languages curriculum by encouraging students to read widely, teaching them to examine and read many forms of text for understanding and enjoyment, and helping them improve their research skills and effectively use information gathered through research.
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