Can International Practicum Foster Intercultural Competence Among Student Teachers?

Source: Journal of the European Teacher Education Network, Vol 12 (2017)

The aim of this study is to investigate how the students’ intercultural competence develops during a three-month practicum placement in Namibia.

The authors present findings from a study of Norwegian student teachers before, during and after their international practicum. The main findings indicate that the international experience alone does not necessarily result in intercultural competence. In order to reach that goal emphasis should be put on student self-reflection in the preparation, implementation and debriefing of the program.