International field schools provide rich, intensive opportunities for students to apply theory from previous courses in a completely different context. It is commonly understood that seminar is a place for students to discuss, question, explore and debate theory related to the discipline of study. Personal experience has underscored the importance of seminars to assist students to make sense and create understanding of what they are experiencing during an international field school.
This presentation will provide an overview of the opportunities and challenges that faculty and students face while participating in an international field school. Seminar takes on a dual purpose; it remains the environment to engage with theory and practice, but it also becomes the place where students can safely explore how cultural context, physical environment and changes in normal routines impact overall learning experiences.
Participants will explore the elements that influence seminar when the context for student learning is an international placement. Small group work will highlight some of the approaches and methods faculty can use to facilitate a higher level of understanding and meaning of course concepts when the international experience challenges the students both academically and personally.
Of Interest to: Post-secondary education, K-12 educators, Instructional designers, Researchers, Educational technologists
