Exploring Experiential Learning: A Duoethnographic Study on US Preservice Teachers in Costa Rica

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Wednesday 11:45 am - Gold 2
  In Roundtable Session: Experiential Education and Community Engagement: Scholarship and Practice SIG Roundtable 1

Abstract

This duoethnographic study examined the collaborative journey of a US teacher educator and a Costa Rican bilingual school principal, focusing on the experiential learning of US preservice teachers during two summer study abroad programs in Costa Rica. Through reflective dialogue, we explored the transformative encounters, challenges, and cultural adjustments faced by preservice teachers as they taught academic content and English in a bilingual school setting. Our findings revealed the profound impact of cross-cultural interactions on both the preservice teachers and the host communities. We highlighted the crucial role of intercultural exchange in developing future educators’ intercultural competence, cultural humility, and culturally responsive teaching practices.

Author

• Katya Koubek, James Madison University