Global Mobility as Educational Paradigm: a Comprehensive Study of the World Schooling Phenomenon
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This comprehensive research article investigates the emerging educational phenomenon of worldschooling – a pedagogical approach where children learn through global mobility. Based on a decade-long ethnographic study of 277 families across 14 countries, the research systematically analyzes four distinct implementation models: formalized distance learning, hybrid integration with local institutions, alternative institutional networks, and non-formalized unschooling approaches. The article establishes a theoretical framework connecting worldschooling to established educational theories including Dewey's experiential learning, Gardner's multiple intelligences, and Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory. Through detailed qualitative and quantitative analysis, it examines both academic outcomes and the distinctive "emotional curriculum" that develops through worldschooling experiences – including enhanced adaptability, intercultural competence, independence, entrepreneurial mindset, and tolerance for uncertainty. Looking beyond immediate educational outcomes, the research explores post-secondary trajectories of worldschooling graduates, revealing distinctive patterns in higher education participation and career orientation. While highlighting worldschooling's promising contributions to developing future-oriented competencies, the study also critically examines limitations regarding socioeconomic accessibility, support for special educational needs, and certification challenges. The article concludes with evidence-based recommendations for integrating valuable elements of worldschooling into traditional educational systems, potentially combining institutional advantages with the development of crucial competencies for our increasingly complex and interconnected global society. With 15 scholarly references and multiple case studies, this research makes a significant contribution to understanding alternative educational approaches in an era of increasing global mobility.
Authors: Natalia Galaburda, Galaburda, Natalia
Institution: University of the People
Language: English
Subfield: Education
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W6930635524
FWCI:
Cites:
Cited by:
Related to: