Intercultural and Cosmopolitan Learning Course Description: This online course provides an introduction to the study of intercultural and cosmopolitan learning. It covers key concepts, such as cultural awareness, communication with diverse populations, building bridges between different cultures, and embracing diversity. You will learn about different techniques used in developing knowledge and skills related to cross-cultural collaborations as well as how to apply a deeper understanding of culture-sensitive practices to foster inclusion. You will also gain an understanding of how working collaboratively across cultures can lead to innovative approaches and long-term solutions. Through interactive lectures, readings, discussions, and assignments you will develop your knowledge of intercultural and cosmopolitan learning while learning practical skills such as recognizing bias & stereotypes in interpersonal interactions, adapting teaching materials & approaches for diverse settings, creating safe organizational environments for intercultural connections, engaging stakeholders in ethical decision making processes and engaging in meaningful dialogue when dealing with complex issues. This course is ideal for those who are new to examining intercultural matters or are interested in pursuing a path involving more advanced topics in the subject. Course Objectives:

• Describe key principles & practices related to intercultural learning
• Examine cultural awareness & communication strategies
• Develop bridge-building skills
• Develop strategies for fostering inclusion
• Adapt teaching materials & approaches
• Recognize bias & stereotypes
• Create safe organizational environments
• Engage stakeholders in ethical decision-making
• Engage in meaningful dialogue
• Use problem-solving processes with an intercultural lens

Issues in Education Course Description: This online course is designed to provide an overview of the major challenges facing contemporary education systems and explore potential solutions. Through a combination of readings, lectures, activities, videos, and discussions, participants will gain a better understanding of the primary issues impacting students, teachers, and administrators in today's educational environment. Course Objectives:

• Understand current trends, challenges, and research related to issues in education
• Identify common factors that contribute to disparities in education outcomes between different student populations
• Examine the influence of public policies on access to quality education services
• Analyze the impact of poverty on educational attainment levels among certain student demographic groups
• Explore ways in which technology can be deployed to improve learning experiences for all students regardless of background or socio-economic status
• Gain an appreciation for multicultural approaches to teaching and classroom management practices
• Understand best practices for working with underserved communities to provide equitable access to quality educational opportunities
• Examine the role of teacher training and professional development in preparing educators for working with the diverse student population
• Develop strategies for addressing social justice issues within school systems
• Identify effective approaches for managing change initiatives within school districts