Wouldn't it be wonderful if there was a worldwide program of international education to promote intercultural understanding and respect? Such a program could encourage students across the world to become compassionate learners who understand that other people with their differences can also be right. The program would develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who would help to create a better and more peaceful world. Some higher level courses could be added and blended into the standard high school curriculum. Several foreign languages would be required as well as a Theory of Knowledge Course designed to encourage students to reflect on the nature of knowledge by critically examining different ways of knowing (perception, emotion, language and reason) and different kinds of knowledge (scientific, artistic, mathematical and historical). Sounds great doesn't it?
Well it IS great and it already exists!! The name of the program is International Baccalaureate. I recently learned about it because my granddaughter is a participant at Adrian High School. The program, headquartered in Switzerland, was started 40 years ago for internationally mobile students preparing for university. It has grown into a major force for good in the world. It enriches the lives of students in 140 countries and over 3000 schools. It promotes critical thinking skills and international-mindedness necessary for life in our globalized world. I commend Adrian High School for being a part of the IB World School and I am proud of Clara for participating. More info is available at http://www.ibo.org/
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