International Education and Resource network, better known as I*EARN, is a global telecommunications network that reaches 3000 schools and organizations, in 51 countries. This valuable network provides young people with the ability to talk, collaborate on projects and exchange ideas; with other young people throughout the world.

The organization was founded by Peter Copen in 1988. He started by connecting kids in New York with those in Moscow, during the cold war. Copen hoped that the connection would lessen the developing animosity. Since that time I*EARN has spread throughout the world, and continues to grow.

Recently two new countries have joined the organization; Mongolia and Ukraine. While I*EARN continues to expand the organization has not actively solicited schools in America because they want to make sure the organization has a solid international base. Lisa Jobsen the US Program Coordinator explained, that the desire of the organization is to be an international organization rather than, an American organization with international affiliates. In accordance with the mission of I*EARN, Rosie Anguilla a former teacher from Argentina has become the International Director of the whole organization.

The primary goal of the organization is to create discussion among kids all around the world and it is clear that the goal has been achieved, when one looks at their web sight. The site consists of topics created by kids which voice their interest and concerns. Among the many topics are violence, love, gangs, police brutality, aids, music, and religion. Young people can get on the site and address the topics that are already posted or create their own.

There have been many out growths of I*EARN which have contributed to the overall effect and power of the organization. The majority of these projects require the use of translators. The most influential of the organizations out growths have been it's publications. These publications have been written in a myriad of languages, and generally are created from the discussions that are had online. Among the many publications is the "Inside View", which shows what has been accomplished by the organization and it's mission.

These publications allow I*EARN to enter the homes of people who otherwise would have no relationship to the program. I*EARN sponsors and organizes workshops for teachers and students affiliated with the program. Among these programs is 'Youth Summit', an annual workshop where teachers and students share the projects that has been accomplished in the past year, and make plans for the coming years projects. I*EARN also is one of the sponsors for the 'Youth Can' conferences that take place annually at the Natural History Museum. In addition I*EARN has played a role in the development of art exhibits, and discussions with the use of video phones.

While the benefits of the organization are invaluable, participation in I*EARN cost $280. Because the cost of participation is the same for schools as it is for individuals, schools generally participate in the program.

Though you cannot participate in the online discussion from your home, you can view these online dialogues at www.iearn.org.