Being back is a bit weird...

Well,

Having been back in Aussie for about 2 weeks, there was a bit of reverse culture shock that I had to go through. Just talking with some mates recently too, they noted that after you have been on an amazing journey like this, you want to come back and tell everyone about it. But, what you find, is that people don't really find it that interesting. Do they care to hear about 'people having to use rocks to wipe their bum?' or 'a stranger inviting you into their house and forcing you to join him for a meal, even when they hardly have enough for themselves?' Not really. I guess it's more interesting to me because I have actually been there, and actually seen it.

But there is a good point in this for teaching too. If, for example, I brought some pictures to show, or some local music to listen to, or some food to taste, would people be more interested? Perhaps. By stimulating more senses do people become more interested? And could you use this to engage more students?

I'm in the middle of trying to make a video documentary to send to Matthewos for him to keep as a record of the work he is doing there. I just feel lucky to have been able to be a part of what is happening and to have the chance to learn so much about education. When it's done (it's not that easy, hey) i'm going to ship some copies to Eritrea, but I might also send some to UNESCO and UNICEF to see if they are interested in funding him. Maybe even the SBS/ABC??

So Steve, i'll be back in Africa, Ghana this time, in September. In the meantime, I might be able to fill in for someone at the Maths Association of Victoria, which will help me put some money away. How are things with you?