International Student Teaching: A Transformational Experience

Today, being a teacher requires understanding and positively responding to
the cultural and linguistic nuances present in the classroom. The
increasingly diverse schools are placing higher expectations on teachers in
regard to the use of multicultural practices. This is compelling teacher
preparation programs to find new formulas to adequately train teacher
candidates. International student teaching programs have been shown to
yield important benefits for participants. This article describe an
international student teacher exchange program between the University of
North Texas and the University of Seville (Spain) and reflects on the effects
of the experience on a Spanish preservice teacher and his mentor teacher in
Texas. Implications and suggestions for teaching preparation programs are
also provided.