On July 12 and 13th,2012, the Confucius Institute at Texas A&M University teamed up with the Office of Public Partnership and Outreach to provide the “Going Global Workshop”, which aimed to better equip elementary teachers to integrate multicultural curriculum into their classrooms. The workshop was facilitated by Dr. Martha Green, and the two day event was filled with cultural activities that illustrated how to prepare students for a diverse world and workplace and create an inclusive learning environment where they can explore their own culture while appreciating the culture of others.

On day two, the Confucius Institute presented “Celebrating China”, which introduced the most influential Chinese holidays, such as the Spring and Mid-autumn Festivals, and taught the teachers about Chinese culture through interactive activities such as paper-cutting, calligraphy, tea ceremonies and making Chinese dumplings. One workshop participant was eager to assimilate the information and activities into her classroom: “I can’t wait to try out some new things and have the students expand on this!”

Students today live in what is often called the Global Age. Due to globalization, technological advances, and immigration, the world students live in and will work in has changed. Students must develop skills that will allow them to succeed in a global workforce, where multinational or international employers require a workforce that values tolerance and respect.