By adminOctober 3, 2024Uncategorized A Memorable Educational Exchange in Mollet As part of our ongoing research project exploring the use of AI in teaching tenses, I recently had the privilege of visiting Sant Jordi School in Mollet. Sponsored by GREIP, a research team from UAB, Barcelona, the trip was designed to foster cross-cultural understanding, and it did not disappoint. My experience was filled with rich exchanges and memorable moments that underscored the value of education and cultural collaboration. Day 1: Welcomed by Tradition and Broadcasted on National News The first day was an unforgettable introduction to Catalonian traditions. The students at Sant Jordi School warmly welcomed me with presentations on local customs such as the human tower, the legend of St. George, and the Giants of Mollet and Barcelona. This offered me a glimpse into their deep cultural pride, instilled from a young age. The day’s highlight, however, was being interviewed—along with other team members—for a national news segment, giving us a larger platform to share the goals of our AI project. The hospitality extended by the school staff was heartwarming. They hosted a traditional Spanish breakfast in my honor, complete with churros dipped in hot chocolate—an exquisite start to my visit! Lesson: Cultural exchange in education is powerful. Experiencing these local traditions taught me the importance of embedding cultural pride in education, which fosters a respect for diversity. Reflection: I left the day with a deeper understanding that learning is a two-way street. While I came to share aspects of Nigerian culture and education, I also left enriched by the vibrant history and traditions of Mollet. Day 2: Nigerian Dance, Virtual Connections, and Insightful Dialogues On the second day, I led a dance workshop that introduced students to traditional dances from Nigeria’s three major ethnic groups, as well as the Gbagyi tribe. The students’ enthusiasm was contagious as they immersed themselves in the cultural exchange, demonstrating how movement can be a universal language. Later, I had the opportunity to present the Nigerian education system to the teachers and share the inspiring story behind the Oakbridge Foundation, which provides free education for out-of-school children in Nigeria. Their emotional response and thought-provoking questions reminded me how powerful personal stories can be in fostering understanding. The day ended with a virtual session between my students in Nigeria and the students of Sant Jordi. Despite some technical hiccups, it was a successful cultural exchange, highlighting the value of technology in education. Following that, I engaged in a discussion with fourth-year education students at UAB and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign on our telecollaborative AI project. Their curiosity and thoughtful questions reinforced the global importance of our work. Lesson: Dance is a universal language. Through movement, the students connected on an emotional level, proving that art can transcend cultural barriers. Reflection: The overwhelming support from the teachers and their interest in the Oakbridge Foundation reinforced the importance of human connection in education. Sharing my experiences from the Nigerian perspective also made me realize how far-reaching our telecollaborative AI project truly is. Day 3: An Emotional Farewell My final day at Sant Jordi was deeply moving. I visited early years classrooms, sharing African stories with the youngest students, and was then treated to a farewell ceremony that was beyond words. The entire school came together with traditional dances and heartfelt gifts. The most touching moment came when I was presented with a framed group photograph and a generous €661 donation to support Oakbridge Foundation. I could not hold back my tears. This was not just a professional visit—it was a heartwarming reminder of the impact we can have on each other when we share our cultures and stories. Lesson: Gratitude often comes in the most unexpected forms. The genuine kindness from the Sant Jordi community was overwhelming and underscored how human connections transcend cultural and geographical boundaries. Reflection: My time in Mollet wasn’t just about education—it was about building human connections. The experience reminded me that no matter where we are, the bonds we create through kindness, empathy, and shared learning are what truly leave a lasting impact. I extend my deepest thanks to Melina Dooly, Maria Mont Algamasilla, GREIP for sponsoring this transformative experience, and to the students and staff of Sant Jordi School for their incredible hospitality. Special appreciation to Joy Idoko and Ese Emmanuel for recommending me for the project. This visit has reinforced the importance of global collaboration in education and reminded me of the power we have to inspire one another across borders.