Greetings,
Much of this has already been said in other forum entries, but it does give me a chance to upload photos of people and school related stuff.
How has the JFMF experience influenced...
As mentioned earlier, I had always wanted to actually 'teach' in another country. The challenge was an incredible opportunity that was the fulfillment of a long held dream. As with all cultural exchanges that my students have participated in, the opportunity to learn from there peers is incredibly valuable. It helps children to see the world through new eyes; forces compromise and a weakening of cultural defenses. This experience was especially significant due to the addition of the video conferencing component. It will not be too much longer before this form of communication becomes common place in our homes and schools not just the boardroom. I am thrilled my students (and I!) had the opportunity to work with this technology. I am equally thrilled with the interest this program has generated in my students about Japan and its culture! I do a major project each year with my fourth graders on medieval Japanese history. This unit will be that much richer for my involvement in this program. The textures of the places I visited have already influenced several of the lessons in this unit;along with the photos and literature which I was able to research. My community (school district) has always embraced the Fulbright programs and I will certainly continue to support the goals and objectives in the future. (I think what I have just written, also answers how this experience has influenced my students!) I would only add that the preparation for the conferences was valuable to the children through the research and oral preparation skills that were developed.
In my final report, I mentioned how the J.C.Vanderburg Rainforest Biosphere Foundation is exploring the idea of employing video conferencing technology to create distance learning field trips with other schools beyond our borders. This is of special interest to me due to the fact that I'm in charge of developing the curriculum, writing the manuals and training the student docents. I can't wait to see how this addition will influence the growth and evolution of this program.
What were the highlights...
How much time do you have.... A major highlight was the lasting friendships that were nurtured through this experience. I have said it before and will say it again, the Japanese people are the nicest, friendliest, most helpful people I have ever experienced. During one of our staff get togethers I once said that I felt more a part of the staff at Nanakuni Elementary School than I do in my own school here. I realize this may sound like an exaggeration, but it wasn't. I will always remember the generosity of all of the staff, parents and administration that went way out of their way to make me feel not just welcome, but an important part of the school. It is a memory I will cherish all of my days...
In closing I would like to thank the Japan Fulbright Memorial Fund for allowing me to participate in this program. I will always be grateful for all of the amazing experiences that you have provided me. Thank you very much! (Photos to follow)
Bill Gilluly, John C. Vanderburg Elementary School, Henderson, Nevada

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