Laurynn Evans is an accomplished educational leader with over twenty years of diverse experience in public, private, and international school settings. Laurynn has been pivotal in integrating global perspectives into curriculums to enhance multicultural understanding and prepare students for a connected world. Known for her strategic and empathetic leadership style, she has successfully implemented innovative academic programs and fostered environments that value cultural diversity and technological integration. Laurynn’s passion for education extends beyond traditional classroom settings; she is also a fervent advocate for environmental conservation, which she explores through her underwater videography venture, Seainggreen Productions. Her dedication to education and the environment demonstrates her belief in the transformative power of learning to improve communities and the planet.
Q&A with Laurynn Evans: Embracing Global Perspectives in Education
Laurynn, can you share with us how your journey in education began and what drives your passion?
My journey in education began over two decades ago as a classroom teacher. What really drives my passion is the profound belief that education is a powerful tool for change—not just in the lives of individuals, but for society as a whole. I’ve always been fascinated by the potential of education to open minds, to bridge cultures, and to foster understanding and cooperation across global communities.
You’ve been a strong advocate for integrating international experiences into local education. Why do you believe this is important?
In our increasingly interconnected world, understanding global perspectives is essential. When students are exposed to international experiences, whether through study abroad programs, exchange students in their classrooms, or virtual collaborations, they gain critical skills. They learn to navigate and appreciate cultural differences, develop language skills, and build empathy and adaptability. These are the competencies that will enable them to succeed in a global workforce and contribute positively to a diverse society.
What are some effective strategies you have implemented to incorporate global learning in the curriculum?
One effective strategy has been the development of a curriculum that integrates global issues across all subjects. For example, in history or literature classes, students might explore how different cultures approach conflict resolution, or they might study a foreign novel. We also leverage technology to facilitate international collaboration projects, where students can work on joint assignments with peers from other countries. These initiatives not only enhance learning but also build real-world connections.
Can you discuss a particular challenge you faced in promoting international education and how you overcame it?
One major challenge is the resource constraint—both in terms of funding and time. Implementing comprehensive international programs can be expensive and logistically complex. To overcome this, we’ve focused on building strong partnerships with schools and organizations around the world. These partnerships have opened up opportunities for shared resources and expertise, making it more feasible to offer rich international learning experiences. Additionally, we’ve utilized technology as a cost-effective tool to bring global experiences directly into the classroom.
How do you measure the impact of these international experiences on students?
Measuring the impact involves looking at both qualitative and quantitative data. We assess students’ engagement and proficiency in skills like critical thinking, language proficiency, and cultural awareness through surveys and assessments. But equally important are the personal stories and reflections from the students themselves. Hearing a student describe how a conversation with a peer from another country changed their perspective is just as valuable as any statistic.
What future developments do you hope to see in the realm of education, particularly regarding international learning?
I hope to see an even greater emphasis on international learning integrated seamlessly across all levels of education. This includes not only expanding existing programs but also innovating new ways to make these experiences accessible to every student, regardless of their background. Additionally, I envision a future where technology’s role in education transcends geographical and socioeconomic barriers, enabling every student to be a global learner.
What advice would you give to new educators who are just starting their careers?
My advice would be to remain open and adaptive. The field of education is constantly evolving, and being flexible and willing to embrace change is crucial. Seek out opportunities for professional development, especially those that expand your understanding of global education trends. And most importantly, always keep the focus on the students—your passion for teaching and your commitment to their growth will be the most significant influence on their success.
Finally, what does success look like to you?
To me, It’s about seeing students apply what they’ve learned about other cultures to develop solutions for real-world problems, demonstrating empathy, creativity, and critical thinking. Success also means building sustainable programs that continue to evolve and adapt to changing global dynamics, ensuring that future generations can benefit from these enriching experiences.