School names: LSA Technology and Performing Arts College & Ysgol Bryn Castell

Teachers: Sandra Underwood & Gareth Jones

Twinned with: Germany & Turkey

*UK National Award Winner 2010. Best New Comer*

Project Overview

“Welcome to my World” has brought together teachers and students from England, Wales, Germany and Turkey to exchange views and information about their lives, hometowns, culture, customs and food, creating an all important "bridge" between them to learn from each other.

Pedagogical Innovation and Creativity

The project has enabled students to learn about other countries and cultures, breaking down barriers and misconceptions they may have previously held. It has also allowed them to learn a vast amount about themselves and gain a wider perception of shared European Culture. Creative content has been shared through a variety of media from letters, to email to video and a blog, which has brought about much more independent learning and group work – affording the pupils the opportunity to show their best work.

Curricular Integration

The tasks undertaken for the project were integrated into a number of curricular areas. Whilst ICT was been prominent in the creation of cards and letters, other areas included English, Geography, History, Religious Education, MFL and PSHE.

Creative Use of ICT

“Welcome to my World” allowed pupils to engage and learn new ICT tools such as blogging, video and powerpoint software, as well as using more traditional forms such as email.

Results and Benefits

The most notable benefit has been the level of enthusiasm from the students. Both teachers involved have received many positive comments from parents and pupils alike about how much they have enjoyed having a real audience for their work. The opportunity to correspond with pupils across Europe has undoubtedly raised their awareness and interest in other cultures, providing a unique learning experience for everyone involved.

http://welcometomyworld-mylife.blogspot.com