The Global Internet Video Classroom (GIVC): A technology supported education model for international learning.

The Global Internet Video Classroom Project is a model that merges education and technology. The primary component is a curriculum design based on best practices in classroom management and learning, while the secondary technology component is the efficient utilization of technology tools to maximize learning. In a comparative classroom study of the Civil Rights and Anti-Apartheid movements, guest activist speakers from the older generation in Cape Town and Chicago interacted with young people via live video. Project quality produced an exciting enhancement of the classroom environment and college curriculum as evidenced by strong student and staff evaluations and assessment, some of which indicated a life-changing experience. The project was launched to provide a connection between the generations across international boundaries.

In order to derive the full benefit of technology in educational settings more cost effective and education-focused models must be developed. As technology becomes more prevalent in education the cost savings in future planning of brick and mortar buildings and the efficient utilization of space must be taken into consideration.

According to UNESCO over 774 million young people and adults in our world today – almost one in five of the adult population – do not have the basic literacy and numeracy skills they require to participate fully in society (Richmond & Sachs-Israel, 2008).