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Today, we enjoy the benefits of technological advances like bullet trains, Facebook, and phones with cameras, wi-fi Internet access, and apps that do almost everything. With these advances in communication and travel, all of us can appreciate how the world has become a smaller, more connected place.
Now a trip to Japan takes hours instead of weeks. A phone call can be Skyped. Class projects can be done with someone living in France or Australia or Canada. Class isn't just a room in a building anymore. Class has been redefined to mean something more. 
With online learning, a class is students and teachers connected from every corner of the globe in a network of learning!
Before online learning, barriers separated students. Barriers were geographical (different countries), physical (different buildings), cultural (different customs), and time-sensitive (different zones). The only way to learn with international students was to visit another country or have students from another country visit your school.
Not anymore. Think of it. Today, the Internet connects you with people you'd have never met before! With all this connection comes global togetherness.
- Diversity is shared.
- Cultures are understood.
- Stereotypes are diminished.
- Differences are embraced and celebrated.
- We can reach others better, faster, and easier than before.
Fun ideas for connecting with international students:
- Start being an email pal with an international student in your online school.
- Encourage international idea exchanges in your online discussion groups.
- Do a class project based on an international learner in your online class.
- Begin an international student club and have online global activities and get-togethers.
