From where does global change derive? How can we use global change to promote deeper learning across the globe?

Change derives from ideas generated by people anywhere and everywhere. Whether the change becomes global depends on the communication of those ideas. Once the barriers of language, culture and geography are overcome, and it has passed "the muster" to be accepted as both workable and worthy the idea can then influence change on a global level. The original idea may likely have undergone a degree of change from its inception. Communication is key.

Just as the invention of the printing press and the subsequent "renaissance of learning" it made possible; the transmission of ideas through books and postings advanced the knowledge, culture and societies of the pre-industrial globe. Later inventions of telegraph, radio, television and microwave communication made it easier to place yourself personally in a global perspective. It was still a limited means of gloabl change. Not everyone could publish and distribute books and ideas. Not everyone could be on television or use radio to reach masses of people. Global change was left to governments and the wealthy. "Grassroots" global change was like the griots of Africa, limited to word of mouth.

The Internet has made possible that grassroots global change that has previously been only a dream. An idea created by a school child in Asia or a factory worker in Indiana can be easily viewed by hundreds, even millions of people around the world.

How can this be used to promote deeper learning across the globe? At the moment it still can. The "longest journey begins with a single step" The "deeper learning" can begin with an email message, reading a blog posting by a soldier in Iraq, a journal of rain forest deforestation by villagers in Borneo or a video posted on YouTube about a massacre in Rwanda. It can be taking an online course from a prestigious university, or sharing ideas with like minded professionals in groups like LinkedIn. Wikis, blogs or Moodles, hundreds of ways and more every day. Best of all, so far, it's not the "party line" of any government. If "we-the people of the Earth" can keep it that way, free and unfettered, then global change can continue to occur. Communication is key. "I may not agree with what you say but I will defend to the death your right to say it." **

**-this is usually attributed erroneously to Voltaire but some research indicates that it was actually Evelyn Beatrice Hall aka (SG. Tallentyreka) in reference to Voltaire's attitude-The Friends of Voltaire 1906) Certainly a noteworthy historical referent and global communication specialist.