Past events are archived below.

Classroom On The World - Background

• Classroom On The World is a series of instructional seminars sponsored by the World Affairs Council Tacoma (WACT) intended to provide K-16 teachers with the knowledge, understanding and teaching materials required to teach global affairs topics in their elementary, middle school, high school, and college classrooms.
• 2007-08 will mark the seventh consecutive year for the Classroom On The World program. Since 2001, Classroom On The World has grown and is now recognized as an exceptional out of school teaching resource by leaders of Pierce County's school districts. It continues to provide participants with information and teaching materials on international topics of interest reflecting current events and cultural affairs.
• The Classroom on the World currently bolsters approximately 8000 students from school districts throughout South Puget Sound. Participation from educators ensures teachers are aware of professional development opportunities, and in turn, the learning opportunities they can provide their students. Their continued participation enhances our capability to provide teachers and students alike with quality presenters, instructional materials, and continuing education.
• A cornerstone of the Classroom on the World program is providing teachers with incentives and resources to teach global topics in their classrooms. Participants typically leave Classroom on the World sessions with instructional materials and resources that help them develop curriculum.
• Approved by most school districts, attendance offers teachers the opportunity to earn continuing education credits needed to maintain certification. Last year, 300 teachers received quality training and curriculum on various topics and regions of the world.
  
  

What to Expect From Attending Classroom On The World Workshops

In support of state standards, cultural literacy will be emphasized in all workshops. Curriculum is provided to create a rich learning environment from which teachers take away meaningful materials. Each program has five primary components:

• Presenters from the University of Washington Tacoma, the University of Puget Sound, Pacific Lutheran University, and other regional institutions discuss the topic. Their backgrounds are directly related to the subjects presented.
• Experienced educators will share curriculum and "best practices" to support a transfer of the information presented into K-16 classrooms. This model was proven to be successful during the pilot phase of the program.
• Presentations are generally accompanied by Power Point or other visual mediums. Additionally, participants receive a packet containing extensive background information as well as curriculum materials for the classroom.
• A light supper is served at the beginning of the session. Delicious cultural cuisine, music, and other features are often used to highlight traditions of countries studied and immerse participants in different cultures during workshops.
• After each workshop, participants have an opportunity to complete an online survey to measure changes of knowledge and understanding. The evaluation will solicit feedback on program highlights, improvements, needed resources, and subjects for future programs. This information provides immediate feedback.
The Classroom On The World usually meets at 4:00 PM on the second Tuesday of each month, starting in October. Classes are generally held in Room M130, the Auditorium at Bates Technical College, 1101 S. Yakima in Downtown Tacoma.

a. Cost is $20.00 per session. The general public is welcome.

b. Advance reservations are requested.

Additional Incentives For Teachers Include:

• Teachers may be eligible for "optional day pay" from their school districts and free continuing education credit.
• Please contact your school or district to learn what is required to receive credit and if "optional day pay" is available.
• Proof of clock hours is provided at the conclusion of each workshop.