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Fulbright TGC - LEARN

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What Is Global Competence?

Global competence is more than a buzzword—it’s the foundation for preparing students to thrive in a diverse, interconnected world. It means being able to investigate global issues, understand different perspectives, communicate effectively across cultures, and take informed action.

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My definition:
Global competence is the ability to critically engage with world issues, appreciate cultural diversity, and collaborate across borders to build equitable, sustainable solutions. It’s about curiosity, empathy, and action—inside and outside the classroom.

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Why Global Education Matters in K–12 Classrooms

Global education equips students with the skills they need for life beyond school: adaptability, cultural literacy, ethical decision-making, and a collaborative mindset. It aligns with 21st-century learning goals, social-emotional learning initiatives, and college/career readiness standards.

In an era where local actions have global impacts—from climate change to digital communication—students need to understand the world, not just live in it.

Organizations Leading the Way in Global Education

Global Education Assessment Tools

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​Use these tools to measure and reflect on students’ global competencies—and your own!

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  1. EdSteps Global Competence Matrix
    Defines and benchmarks global competence development for educators and students.
     

  2. ACTFL Intercultural Competence Rubrics
    Designed for assessing language and cultural skills with a focus on communication and reflection.
     

  3. OECD PISA Global Competence Framework
    Offers internationally benchmarked guidance for teaching and evaluating global understanding.
     

  4. Asia Society Performance Outcomes Rubric – A tool to help teachers and schools assess the development of global competence across grade levels.
    https://asiasociety.org
     

  5. The Global Education Benchmark Group (GEBG) Assessment Toolkit – Designed for schools measuring growth in intercultural learning.
    https://gebg.org
     

  6. UNESCO Intercultural Competency Self-Assessment – A reflective tool for educators to measure their own development.
    https://unesdoc.unesco.org
     

  7. Council of Europe – Autobiography of Intercultural Encounters – A personal reflection tool for examining meaningful intercultural experiences.
    https://www.coe.int
     

  8. Harvard Project Zero – Global Thinking Routines – Thought protocols that encourage global awareness and reflection in the classroom.
    http://www.pz.harvard.edu/projects/global-thinking-routines

 

🔍 Pro Tip: Use these tools during PLC meetings or curriculum planning to self-assess your school’s readiness and next steps

Additional Global Education Resources

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Here are more high-quality, classroom-tested materials to deepen your understanding:

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