Bayview Beach Resort, Batu Ferringhi Beach, Penang, Malaysia

27-30 September 1999

Internationalising preservice teacher education: Use of Internet conferencing to promote greater awareness of cultural differences

Dr Chris Forlin

University of Southern Queensland, Australia

Dr Clayton Keller

University of Minnesota, Duluth

Dr Ragnar Thygesen

Norwegian University of Science & Technology

Abstract

Abstract: The increased use of technologies in classrooms necessitates the incorporation of the teaching of appropriate technical skills into preservice teacher training. To promote a greater understanding of the use of the Internet and to motivate preservice teachers to use this to support their teaching an international link between Australia, The USA, and Norway was established. The medium of discussion for this link was the education of children with special needs. Debate focused on the policies, practices, and different cultural needs within each jurisdiction. An Internet package iVisit was employed as this incorporated audio, visual and written communication styles. Preservice teachers were highly enthused by participating in these links, and became very much aware of the differing cultural needs of others and how these were met in other countries. It is hoped that such linkages at preservice level will encourage teacher trainees to become more involved with the use of the Internet when they become fully qualified teachers.

(Paper 45 minutes)

Theme: Worlds of Learning: Internationalising the curriculum in higher education

NOTE: The presentation of this paper would be greatly enhanced if it were possible to have access to the Internet. This would require a computer with either a modem or direct link to the Internet, together with a microphone and small camera (eg Quick Cam). If this was possible this presentation could become a workshop with participants being able to link up with academics in other countries for an international debate during the session.