EDUC-382

Each year the Fritz Shurmur Center for Teacher Development at Albion College offers members of the student teacher program with an opportunity to explore the education systems and cultures of various nations around the world. This January, four members of the program, Andrew Roche, Emily Frikken, Lily Schmidt, and Rebecca Guntz will venture to Noisy-le-Roi, France. Noisy-le-Roi, a suburban community Northwest of Paris and Versailles, and Albion are sister cities. While in Noisy-le-Roi, we will teach a series of lessons revolving around aspects of American culture, literature, and the English language. We also aim to continue to build upon the already strong sister city relationship that already exists between Noisy-le-Roi and Albion in addition to teaching in local classrooms.

In the months and weeks leading up to our departure from the U.S. each of us developed an inquiry question to fuel our studies and observations as we explore the French education system. Since we will only be abroad for two weeks, the primary objective of our inquiry project is relatively broad, but the general gist is to encourage us to develop a stronger understanding of the French education system, as well as learn about and interact within the local culture and traditions. While in Noisy-le-Roi, we will live with host families that have graciously opened their doors and provided each of us with a place to stay during our time in France. In regards to our engagement in the classroom, we will visit various French schools and interact with the students, faculty and staff. Upon returning to Albion, each of us will present our findings and experience to the public schools students in the Albion public schools and the Capstone Symposium on Teaching sponsored by the Shurmur Center for Teacher Development and the Education Department.