First Conference Session

Great start to the CSCC conference: This afternoon was the first (ever -- and hope the first in a series) of sessions on internationalization. Got some ideas on how to "internationalize" just about any course I'm teachin! It's actually not that hard -- we just need to expand our thinking a bit as we think about our courses.

The next session was a panel presentation that included an overview of the emerging community college system in Hong Kong, efforts in East Africa, higher ed in Brasil and where community colleges fit in, and the community college movement in India. Speakers stressed the importance of equity and access over structure ... and cautioned western educators against imposing our system (of education, values, etc.) on other countries and, instead, meet those countries where they are -- with a focus on equity and access.

Following the two panel presentations, we had a "new member" reception. It was nice to meet some of the new attendees (easily identifiable by their red ribbons) and to see returning members. CSCC is a great organization! It's so nice to talk with colleagues and look for ways to support each other.

Returned to my hotel and am having dinner in the restaurant here ... a bowl of jambalaya so I could save room for the warm biscuit sundae dessert. Oh, my, it's quite delicious.