Cross-Cultural Education: An Auto-Ethnographic Reflection on Teaching in an Intensive English Camp in Thailand

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Authors
Richardson, Tobin
Kelderhouse, Lindsey
Advisor
Issue Date
2016
Keyword
Cross-Cultural Education
Comparative Education
TESOL
Auto-Ethnography
Thailand
Degree
Department
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Abstract

Many Americans are interested in teaching English internationally. While much curiosity regarding global English instruction exists, especially among college students and graduates, many of these prospective international teachers may be unsure of what such an experience will truly entail, or have uncertainty regarding best cross-cultural teaching practices. This chapter, through an auto-ethnographic reflection, will further explore the involvements of the authors, who each taught within an intensive English camp in Thailand. Journaling from each author was used to identify particularly important themes from this experience, including the role of emotions such as adventure and excitement, frustration and anxiety; the development of cross-cultural instructional skills; and the building of deep and meaningful cross-cultural relationships. Implications drawn from the authors’ experiences that may be useful to prospective or current international and domestic teachers are further explored.