Internationalizing Teacher Education: Examining the Development of Intercultural Competence Through Experiential Education

• In Event: Building Intercultural Competence Through Service-Learning and Experiential Education Abroad

Abstract

In responding to the impact of globalization, teacher education institutes (TEIs) have increasingly adopted international fieldwork experiences to develop intercultural competence among pre-service teachers. Growing research has demonstrated the significance of preparing a culturally responsive teaching force and yet many teachers remain anxious and underprepared about providing equal learning opportunities for all so as to cater for diversity. This paper investigates this global issue through the lens of a leading Asian faculty of education which has positioned experiential learning a cornerstone of its undergraduate curriculum. Adopting a mixed-methods approach, the current study examines both local and international experiential learning contexts and scrutinizes the development of intercultural competence among pre-service teachers. The findings contain important lessons in nurturing a responsive teaching force.

Authors

• Jessie M. L. Chow, The University of Hong Kong

• Gary James Harfitt, The University of Hong Kong