Universal Journal of Educational Research Vol. 1(3), pp. 240 - 246
DOI: 10.13189/ujer.2013.010314
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International Student Mobility Programs and Effects on Student Teachers’ Perceptions and Beliefs about Education and Their Role as Future Educators

Rachel Richardson^1,*, Jennifer Munday ^2
1 Faculty of Science, Charles Sturt University, Albury, 2460, New South Wales, Australia
² Faculty of Education, Charles Sturt University, Albury, 2460, New South Wales, Australia

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study was to examine the value and benefits obtained from a semester length academic exchange for Australian early childhood teacher education students in equivalent programs in selected European sites. The data obtained from interviews conducted in this qualitative study indicate that students involved in the international mobility program experienced changes to their own sense of identity and their perception of other cultural practices and attitudes. In particular, the students’ international experiences caused them to reflect deeply on matters of early childhood practice in their host and home countries and these reflections led, in some cases, to reconsiderations of their future role as practitioners. The students’ reflections also offer the university sector some points to consider with respect to student mobility programs, particularly in how participants are supported in interpreting their overseas experience.

KEYWORDS
Internationalisation, Global curriculum, Student exchange, Cross-cultural understanding

Cite This Paper in IEEE or APA Citation Styles
(a). IEEE Format:
[1] Rachel Richardson , Jennifer Munday , "International Student Mobility Programs and Effects on Student Teachers’ Perceptions and Beliefs about Education and Their Role as Future Educators," Universal Journal of Educational Research, Vol. 1, No. 3, pp. 240 - 246, 2013. DOI: 10.13189/ujer.2013.010314.

(b). APA Format:
Rachel Richardson , Jennifer Munday (2013). International Student Mobility Programs and Effects on Student Teachers’ Perceptions and Beliefs about Education and Their Role as Future Educators. Universal Journal of Educational Research, 1(3), 240 - 246. DOI: 10.13189/ujer.2013.010314.