#55 The Secrets to Creating Authentic Global Connections Online with Shared Studios' Virtual Portals (Special Crosspost of Why Distance Learning? Podcast)

🎙 SPECIAL EPISODE!

This week, we’re crossposting a must-hear episode from Why Distance Learning? where we explore how immersive global connections can transform education. Virtual learning can open the world to students—but how do we ensure these experiences feel real, engaging, and deeply impactful?

👉 Today’s Big Question: Can Virtual Learning Build Real-World Global Competencies?

🎧 Global educators face these key challenges:

• “How do I create genuine, meaningful student connections across cultures?”

• “Can technology foster empathy and understanding, not just content delivery?”

• “What if cross-cultural conversations go wrong?”

🔥 Our guests:

• Dr. Brandon Ferderer (Head of Programming, Shared Studios) reveals how immersive portals create face-to-face, full-body interactions that foster authentic global dialogues.

• Ross Phillips (Social Studies Teacher, Winnacunnet High School) shares how he uses this technology to prepare students for global conversations that deepen their understanding of history, culture, and world issues.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Why screen-based interactions often fall short in creating true connection—and how immersive experiences change the game

✅ How to prepare students for respectful, deep cross-cultural discussions

✅ The role of facilitators in guiding meaningful, bias-free global conversations

✅ Real-life student success stories from transformative global learning moments

Guest Links:
Shared Studios: https://www.sharedstudios.com/

Host links:
1. Discover more virtual learning opportunities and resources at CILC.org with Tami Moehring and Allyson Mitchell.

2. Seth Fleischauer’s Banyan Global Learning provides meaningful global learning experiences that prepare students across the globe for success in an interconnected world.