Global Connect

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The Challenge

Study abroad plans are being disrupted by the outbreak of COVID-19 this means that intercultural learning might be impossible physically. In addition, even in normal situations exchange programs are mostly expensive and it is not available for everyone due to various matters.

Solution

Our solution is an app that connects people around the world simulating an exchange program in an exciting way through chats, forums, AR tours, and even being hosted by a virtual host family. It is available for those who want to experience intercultural learning and to become a global citizen. It allows users to share knowledge, learn a new language, get immersive cultural experience, share everything about their country and make long-lasting friendships, all in one application. It is designed to connect anyone to any part of the world at the comfort of their home. There is no limit in exploring the world and learning along the way. We are bringing the whole to the people in a few clicks. We are determined to provide an immersive experience to let people enjoy the world in a unique way !

Impact

1. Sustainability This idea will be beneficial to people because there will be an opportunity to become a global citizen through sharing and learning about different cultures in a faster, cheaper and safer way than other options in the market. This could be a place where people share, discuss and learn various topics and interests. A place where learning the language is not the only objective. It will be beneficial on the environmental level, too. Since students can no longer travel, this will reduce one's carbon footprint. By turning the exchange program into a virtual one, people will not only use costly flights that pollute the atmosphere.

2. Scalability If the app has a great reception in the market where we already need to open more fields in age, initially it will be for people aged 15-30 years and later it could open a group for people aged 30-60 years. We could include a virtual room for teachers only and they can interact in an educational environment. It could become a guide for tourists when they decide to visit another country Additionally, it could also be developed to cater to the needs of physically impaired people.

3. Innovation potential Since most of the study abroad programs are being stopped and most of the people now are into technology, we harness what technology can offer and this is to make study abroad virtually. With this app, the cultural exchange can still be experienced. There would be an immersive which uses Augmented Reality (AR) to create an interactive environment. We would like to encourage a participative and rewarding learning environment by introducing a game-based approach and rewards to encourage continuous learning. The platform also serves as a platform that encourages constant engagement by providing Forums and Live Chat with people in all parts of the world. Users also get to enjoy contents and topics shared by the locals of the country which makes the platform to be user-generated and allow users to express themself to the world.

4. The AFS Angle: Global Competence Development The app will create and develop active global citizens through virtual intercultural immersion, learning not only a language or a country but also the way of life of people, engage and have interaction with them virtually. Thus, these users as global citizens will develop mutual understanding, appreciate the views of the others and effectively collaborate with people with different cultural backgrounds and act as one.

5. Social Value Our idea allows us to break down barriers such as distance, access to education, stereotypes, the management of our time, discrimination and many more. Creating the possibility of knowing more deeply about cultures and new visions of seeing the world. The idea could benefit educators, students and community such immigrants and tourists because we could learn about their customs and make them feel like home. Thus, this platform directly contributes to one of the SDG goals which are Quality Education for all from anywhere of the world.

6. Implementation -Contact a web app developer. -Define parameters such as the age of users (15-30 years); log in / sign in methods; design a digital security measures protocol; extension of files you can share, etc. -Create and develop the app.
-Try the app on a few volunteers for a certain period of time and see if there are any changes or improvements that could be brought to it. (beta mode / trial ) -Receive feedback from the trial mode -Launch the app on a bigger scale and promote it to local AFS centres. -Do surveys and check for any technical issues in the app in order to enhance and further the longevity of the app

Built With

• canva
• marvel