Exploring our own worldviews

No matter what role teachers play in global education, it is important that they have an understanding of themselves – and not just their pupils – as global learners. So, it’s important for educators to consider their own perspectives on the world and how these might influence their practice.

Global education can therefore also be about opening teachers up to critically reflect on their old worldviews and how they relate to others and the wider world. While individual teachers will have diverse experiences that inform how they relate to the world – for instance, some might have travelled, learned a language, or have family overseas – this might not be the same for others.

Try the following activity:

Step 1. Imagine that you have a pair of glasses or a special lens. On these glasses you can think of/write down any factors that might influence how you view the world. This might include your gender, religion, ethnicity/nationality, age, political view, media influences, education, profession, role models, where you live and particular experiences you’ve had.

Step 2. Now put your glasses on. Consider how the things you’ve written on your glasses influence what you are see and how you see the world around you. You might like to write down some of your thoughts and reflections on this exercise, as you will be discussing it with the group in the next step.

.