Learning About Our Selves as Educators Through Service-Learning in a Remote Indigenous Community

• In Event: 46.076 - Transforming Self Through Intercultural Experiences

Abstract

This collaborative self-study conducted by two preservice teachers and their teacher educator explores the consequences of a study abroad service-learning trip on their evolving identities and dispositions toward educational equity. Data sources included the three investigators’ reflective journals, artifacts from the community, secondary text sources, and informal observations and interactions with community members. The investigators analyzed the influence of their own cultural heritages and prior life experiences on the personal/professional development they experiences during and following the time abroad. The study abroad experience and their engagement in a collaborative self-study propelled all three investigators to more closely interrogate their beliefs about schooling and strengthened their resolve to work toward social justice in their present and future classrooms.

Authors

• Valerie A. Allison, Susquehanna University

• Nadia A McCallum, Susquehanna University

• Ryan M. Pelletier, Susquehanna University