This research investigates the development of intercultural competencies in preservice Early Childhood Education (ECE) teachers participating in a South-North exchange program between STADIO Higher Education in South Africa and Queen Maud University College (QMUC) in Norway. Utilising Deardorff’s Intercultural Competence Development Model, the study examines the transformative impact of immersion in foreign cultural environments on student teachers' learning journeys. Two cohorts of students have participated to date, with each cohort gaining firsthand exposure to diverse cultural and educational contexts, fostering growth in cultural self-awareness, perspective-taking, and empathy. Through qualitative analysis of reflective practices, participatory action research, and self-study methodologies, the study highlights the challenges and opportunities that students encountered. Their experiences not only shaped their personal and professional identities but also informed their future teaching practices, allowing them to better address the needs of increasingly multicultural classrooms. The exchange experience led to shifts in how students understood cultural diversity and its implications for pedagogy, which in turn contributed to a reimagining of the exchange programme curricula at both institutions. The research emphasises the transformative value of internationalisation. This study offers recommendations for maximising the educational impact of such programmes and proposes a framework for other institutions aiming to implement similar initiatives. Ultimately, the findings underscore the essential role of intercultural competence in preparing educators to create inclusive and globally aware classrooms, contributing to broader discussions on the internationalisation of teacher education.

Authors:
Amanda Lee, STADIO Higher Education, South Africa
Gjertrud Stordal, Queen Maud University College, Norway
Divya Singh, STADIO Higher Education, South Africa

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Amanda Lee is the Head of Academic Success at STADIO Higher Education. Her research interests encompass student success and support, student agency and engagement, as well as online interventions and activities designed to enhance student success

See this presentation on the full schedule – Saturday Schedule

Bookmark