C33 (Application): International Mindedness

by Lu Gerlach

​Welcome to our second episode in our application series!  Today, we will look at ways to apply international mindedness and reflect on our practice.

​ When we apply international mindedness, what might this look and feel like?  It’s hard to put into action something that is so tied with our disposition and belief system.  Here are some ideas that we shared previously:

• ​Multilingual and Multicultural Texts
• Bringing in Families
• Reflection Scenarios
• Giving Time to Tinker
• Build capacity through multiple options
• Defining it for themselves in kid language 
• Creating an Internationally Minded School Mission
• Building Relationships through beliefs and values
• Building Relationships through norms
• Building Relationships through roles

​The first step is looking at this list and thinking about some actions that you would like to take on within the next term.  My advice is to choose 1-2 items, so they can be truly mastered before trying something new.  It’s all about learning transfer; repeated practice and meaningful application will make it happen. 

The second step is reflecting on our practice using a reflection quadrant. We will use a table in paper or electronic form that you can use with your students.  It’s a great way to capture ideas in short sections, so it’s not too overwhelming.  This is a perfect way to get older students to reflect on their learning process and make suggestions for improvement.  Let’s try it out.

To set-up our reflection quadrant, fold a piece of paper in half two times to make four boxes.  Label each box accordingly. 
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• In the first box (upper left side), label the box is Potential
• In the second box (upper right side), label the box is Desired
• In the third box (lower left side), label the box is Current
• In the fourth box (lower right side), label the box is Growth

​Now, we are going to take our time to reflect in each box answering the following questions.  Remember, our path towards growth begins with an honest assessment of the situation as it really is and not how we wish it would be. 

In the upper left side, Identify the potential for international mindedness to happen in your class and/or school.
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In the upper right side, brainstorm ideas which represent a desired situation or “the bigger picture” that you would like to see happening with relationships in your class and/or school. 

In the lower left side, add notes which represent the current situation with relationships in your class and/or school. 

In the lower right side, identify and list the areas of growth that may inhibit the development of international mindedness in your class and/or school. 

Now, take these ideas back to your team and share your honest feedback.  As a team, decide which pieces will be the next step in your action plan and annotate them in your PYP unit planner. Our goal is tangible application. 

In our next episode, we will apply our understanding of agency and action in a new way.