2025-2026 AFS Effect+ for the Classroom

AFS Effect+ for the Classroom is a global virtual exchange and training program that aims to equip teachers to introduce students to the UN SDGs and develop lifelong intercultural skills to make progress toward these goals.

No matter which subject you teach, the AFS Effect+ for the Classroom Program will help you develop cultural self-awareness, empathy for other cultures, and ways to build bridges in multicultural classrooms. You will also learn about key concepts and principles of global citizenship education, and how to foster it with your students.

During this program, teachers will:

• Explore different views, cultures and ways of life in a collaborative virtual learning environment
• Make local and global connections with other educators interested in Global Citizenship Education
• Experience different training and teaching styles
• Earn a certificate of completion indicating the number of hours of engagement, types of activities and topics covered
• Engage their students in learning about Active Global Citizenship

The 6-week virtual learning certification will require approximately 2-3 hours of your time to engage in:

• synchronous activities: 90 minute live sessions on Zoom with your global peers, led by certified AFS facilitators, and
• asynchronous content: access to a learning platform at your own time to complete video modules, discussion forums, case studies and quizzes.

Participation will require approximately 2-3 hours of your time each week during the first 6 weeks of engagement in the program.

The live sessions will be offered at multiple times to accommodate diverse time zones and schedules.

Participants will be able to indicate desired scheduling preferences for the live sessions.

Missing more than one of the required 4 live facilitated dialogue sessions will result in disqualifying a participant from earning the AFS Global Competence Certificate. (Of course, we are flexible with active communication in the event of emergencies).

• Applicants must serve as high school (secondary level) teachers for 14-18-year-old students.
• Must be able to participate fully in activities (online modules, discussion forums and live dialogue sessions) conducted entirely in English.
• Demonstrated interest in global citizenship education, education for sustainable development and interacting with different cultures.
• Motivated teachers from all backgrounds who reflect the diversity of populations around the world, particularly underrepresented populations, are strongly encouraged to apply!

• A computer, smartphone or other digital devices to access the virtual program content
• An integrated webcam and microphone for participation in online dialogue sessions
• Stable internet or wifi connection