K12Online 2009, part 1

I like the way Kim Cofino structured her address and shared ways in which her thinking was challenged, and how she challenges our ways of thinking. Organizing the presentation by incorporating very real aspects of her life abroad was a great analogy - very creative! She challenged one of my ways of thinking by saying culture shock is not always negative. Good point.

Her presentation made me think about the time I spent abroad as a junior in college. I attended an American international school in London for a semester. Looking back on it, I wish I had been more aware of, and receptive to, the cultural aspects of this experience, not simply pleased that we didn't have classes on Friday which allowed more time to travel. Yes, that was a significant and important part of the experience, however, I'm sure there was more to it than what my teenage mind was focused on. One recollection - and that's if I remember correctly... At the beginning of the semester there was more intermingling among cultures, meaning, students from various countries frequently socialized together. As time went on, however, my photos become less diverse, and only include the American students. As time went on, it seems we gravitated to what was familiar. I wonder if that would be the same today where people are much more connected. I do think we still find comfort in what is familiar, and that's okay. One student in Kim's address commented on this.

Seeking the familiar is not a negative thing, but an observation and an awareness which allows us to be adaptable and flexible, leaving us open to diverse experiences. I have a very clear recollection of being with friends and ordering my first pint of Guinness with Mafit (I wish he told me then that woman order half pints, not full), marveling at the fact that Rodrigo never took a photo because he knew it could never adequately represent his memories, and enjoying tasty Greek tidbits with Dimitri. I will also remember passing by the tv room and seeing the students from Beruit watching the news, hoping their families and friends had survived the bombings. Vast differences in background at the time. Is that true today?

Next on tap.... The Wizard of Apps.