Learn More at the
NWEA Conference
Program Coordinator Judy Freund will be available at the Northwestern Wisconsin Educators Association (NWEA) Convention in Eau Claire on October 9-10, 2008.
Stop by the Friends of International Education exhibit to ask questions about the program and pick up an application (PDF).
Explore the World and Learn
The International Traveling Teacher provides opportunities for experienced educators to learn about educational systems in other countries through volunteer experiences in selected schools abroad.
The program works collaboratively with schools worldwide to identify sites where educators can team-teach or shadow their colleagues in sites around the world. Trips are usually 3-4 weeks long and occur in summer months. Participating teachers are not paid but will earn graduate credits from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls upon completion of the travel experience and additional independent study.
Participants pay for all expenses related to travel, lodging, insurance and other travel-related expenses, and tuition for the graduate credits they earn. Whenever possible, and with the assistance of the host school, arrangements are made for USA teachers to live with host families.
Who Should Participate
The program is designed for educators of all levels and subject areas, including administrators, specialists and counselors. Most teachers participate during the summer but alternative travel times, such as for teachers on a sabbatical or a leave of absence, may also be arranged.
Placement Countries
While many participants pursue placements in English-speaking countries, we encourage and support individuals interested in travel to non-English-speaking countries. In responding to the needs of participating teachers, our placements result in mutually beneficial experiences for everyone.
We have successfully placed teachers in schools in Argentina, Australia, Chile, China, Costa Rica, Ecuador, England, Fiji, France, Germany, Ghana, Guatemala, Hungary, India, Ireland, Jamaica, Kenya, Mexico, Nicaragua, Nepal, New Zealand, Northern Ireland, Paraguay, Russia, Scotland, Spain, South Africa, Tanzania, Thailand, Tonga, Trinidad, Turkey, Uganda and Vietnam.
Since the intent of the program is to immerse educators in the educational system and culture of the host country, participants are typically placed in local schools. However, if placement in International Schools best meets the needs of a teacher, we can do this too.
Features of Program
- Serves educators who want to learn more about the educational system or culture of another country.
- Participants earn graduate credit from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, ranging from 3-6 credits depending on their interests..
- Travel is typically 3-4 weeks to an overseas host school for a non-paid, “team-teaching”, “shadow,” or other appropriate experience.
- Participants become familiar with the educational system, teaching methods, curriculum, assessment strategies, etc. while also sharing their ideas, common concerns, and teaching philosophies.
- Teachers determine the nature of their involvement in the overseas school and this is coordinated with the overseas school.
- Teachers may be from any grade level, academic discipline, specialization or administrative roles.
This is a positive, stimulating and rewarding experience for participants that results in lasting friendships and relationships. Participants return with an expanded global perspective, committed to helping their students embrace new roles as global citizens, and with an enthusiasm for internationalizing the curriculum.
We invite you to explore the world!
Get Started by completing and sending in a Placement Request Form (PDF document)
