Application Deadline: November 29, 2024
World Smarts Changemakers joins middle and high school students in Guatemala and the United States for conversational language learning in online collaboration spaces. Students form binational teams and design solutions for real problems, facilitated by classroom teachers trained in WSC’s curriculum focused on UN Sustainable Development Goals, design thinking, and conversations. Throughout the project-based learning experience, participants develop skills such as digital literacy, cross-cultural communication, cooperation, and critical thinking. After each cohort, participants participate in the Community Celebration and Student Celebration event, which is a showcase of sustainable solutions and celebration of conversational moves and foundational skills.
World Smarts Changemakers is funded by the Stevens Initiative, which is housed at the Aspen Institute and is supported by the Bezos Family Foundation. The program is implemented by IREX with partnership from Empresarios por la Educación.
Eligibility requirements
- Current 6th – 9th grade educators in Washington D.C., Maryland, or Virginia
Facilitator Responsibilities
The facilitator will:
- Incorporate the curriculum in class with approximately 20 students. Curriculum fits well with Dual Language Programs in Spanish and English, Civics, Global Studies, Social Change classes and any subject with a project-based learning focus.
- Participate in a virtual workshop on implementing the World Smarts Changemakers Curriculum, cross-cultural training, inclusive education strategies, technology implementation, and virtual project-based learning;
- Collaborate effectively with their co-facilitator in Guatemala to coach their binational team and complete the challenge milestones together;
- Connect with IREX staff on ongoing communications and support;
- Manage and implement the team’s virtual and in-person instruction and collaboration throughout the challenge;
Benefits for Facilitators
- $500 honorarium upon program completion;
- Funds for team supplies
- Fully developed and bilingual program guides;
- Dedicated staff support, including weekly, one-on-one coaching sessions from IREX throughout the challenge;
- Certificate of Completion;
- Upon successful completion of the program, participants join a network of Stevens Initiative alumni, unlocking opportunities for their continued learning and development including regular newsletters and access to Localized, an online professional development platform;
- Skills development in facilitating global citizenship and innovation;
Application Timeline:
Facilitators will be expected to contribute 2-4 hours per week to the World Smarts Changemakers program.
*Note that program events may be subject to change
November 4 – November 29, 2024: Applications Open
Mid – December 2024: Notification
January 13, 2025 – January 17, 2025: Virtual Facilitator Training
February – April: Virtual Exchange Program
More Info: World Smarts Changemakers Changemakers
