The World Experience is a new and innovative program that combines an interactive classroom curriculum with a simulated hands-on activity where students “tour the world” for a day. Students prepare for the simulation by studying the customs and cultures of a single country as a team. They develop display materials and the competency to play the role of travelers and hosts. The World Experience is an interactive instruction program that builds upon students’ social studies, math, language arts, and critical thinking skills by giving them real-life application. The simulation activity vividly demonstrates the indisputable connection between local action and global consequences while teaching leadership, cooperation, decision-making, and cross-cultural sensitivity and understanding. Volunteers are always needed to assist teachers and supervise students.

The program is offered at no direct cost to schools due to generous support from the following community minded businesses:

Townsend Engineering, Pioneer Hi-Bred International, State Farm Insurance, United Way of Central Iowa, Greater Des Moines Community Foundation, Principal Financial Group Foundation, Inc., John Deere Des Moines Operations, Wells Fargo, Allied Insurance, and Capital City Fruit Co., Inc.

For more information, please contact the ICIU office at 515-282-8269, x11.

Student Responses to The World Experience
“It taught us some things about our country and other places around the world. I think we learned a lot about
teamwork and friendship.”

“Learning about other countries will help us get along in years to come.”

“I would come back tomorrow if I could. World Experience lets me feel like I’m in the place.”

"It made me grateful for the things I have because people in other countries are not as lucky.”

Here's How It Works
How do schools and students prepare?

 

The foundational curriculum developed through a collaborative effort between ICIU, Drake University, and middle school teachers throughout Central Iowa, includes a guide to introducing international relationships in the classroom as well as practical skills needed for the program’s culminating simulation event. The World Experience builds upon students’ social studies, math, language arts, and critical thinking skills by giving them real-life application.

How does The World Experience benefit students, schools, parents, and the community?

 

The World Experience brings the world to life for students

like no other activity can. This program helps young

students become better citizens in their local communities

and better citizens of our global community. Students

learn skills concerning:

 

• The interdependence of major international issues
• The importance of cross-cultural communication

• The impact of the media on global relations

• An increased understanding of other countries’ geographies and histories
• An enhanced sensitivity toward cultural values and norms