Internationally Mindedness
Robert O’Rourke
Today I want to speak to you about International Mindedness, one of the most important concepts of The International Baccalaureate Educational (IB) programe which begins in primary school and is completed in grade 12.
In our school we teach the IB Diploma Program in grade 11 and 12.
But the skills and methods of teaching and learning can be seen throughout the school.
These are statements from real people in real life situations expressing their views on International Mindedness.
“It is simply a question of being open minded, thinking more on how to relate to and understand other human beings and their perspective and their point of view”.
“It is learning, understanding and respecting other points of view even if we disagree with them.”
“It is breaking down stereotypes, challenging misconceptions, being able to adapt and live in different places promoting peace and understanding.”
“it is based on having a clear idea of your own culture because when you are secure in your own culture and identity then you will have the strength to understand and respect other cultures.”
International Mindedness may come down to two key phrases: Reach out and Reach in’.
Reach out to interact with and understand each other.
Reach in to understand ourselves in relation to others.
In reaching out we feel empathy, we feel what the other feels and we understand it and are more able to accept it.
In reaching in we face our own fears, insecurities, biases and stereotypes are revealed and we may then begin to dismantle them.
Reach out to interact with and understand each other.
Reach in to understand ourselves in relation to others.
In reaching out we feel empathy, we feel what the other feels and we understand it and are more able to accept it.
In reaching in we face our own fears, insecurities, biases and stereotypes are revealed and we may then begin to dismantle them.
In that understanding lies the beginning of the change, a change that will take us towards creating a united, cohesive humanity which turns away from hate and destruction.
And we know that the change is a journey which will feel frightening, dangerous and exhausting.
But i would like to leave you with the reality of how simple and beautiful the idea of a shared love for all humanity is:
Let’s share that beautiful idea of one humanity…