The Associated Schools Project Network (ASPnet) has only recently launched a new collaborative platform aimed to increase communication and creativity among its vast network of nearly 10,000 schools in 181 national networks. It is there in pursuit of the common mission: to bring peace in children’s and young people’s minds.
Indeed, the newly established platform provides an environment where ideas and initiatives of its National Coordinators are brought into the real lives. The platform has been very dynamic, where National Coordinators get involved in meaningful dialogue meant to develop initiatives concerning learners from diverse backgrounds. In doing so, the coordinators will develop initiatives around connecting the global exchange of ideas and educational practices in the context of nurturing diverse backgrounds.
Membership in ASPnet is open to any public or private educational institution accredited by the national authorities of UNESCO Member States. This encompasses a broad range of pre-primary and lower secondary, but also higher secondary and secondary levels, including institutions specific to Technical and Vocational Education and Training and those focused on Teacher Training and Education.
ASPnet challenges its members to engage their whole school community–heads, teaching and administrative staff, boards of governors, student representatives, and families–in collective commitment to nurturing the values embodied by UNESCO. Institutions interested in becoming part of this network are encouraged to consult UNESCO’s priority themes, such as Education for Sustainable Development, Global Citizenship Education, and Intercultural and Heritage Learning.
Characteristics of the New Platform
The new ASPnet will now provide the following modernizing features to improve collaboration and align with the mission of the network:
Interactive Communication Tools: A new facility for chatting facilitates easy communication of National Coordinators between themselves, which would stimulate collaboration and information exchange throughout the network.
Dynamic Directory: The portal’s directory has been redesigned with an improved search capacity and profile updates of National Networks as well as member institutions, thus bringing users in contact with all educational communities around the world.
Data Management Tools: New tools have been added to support easier updating of data which means national network information is kept current and pertinent.
The Launching of this web site marks the beginning of a new era for ASPnet to accept new formats and to reinforce its role in serving global educational purposes. As ASPnet Connect should therefore provide a dynamic network of cooperation and shared commitment to the mission of UNESCO, there are educators working for a just, just, and more peaceful world who will find their new “go-to” resource.