Eye-Opening Cultural Experience Past Review
By A student (Art Teacher Education., Stephen F. Austin State University) - abroad from 08/06/2012 to 08/19/2012 with
Stephen F. Austin State University (SFA): Traveling - Student Teachers in Costa Rica
I learned so much about being a culturally relevant teacher and person. My mind became opened up to more techniques for teaching in a diverse classroom, and how to become aware of critical pedagogy. I became more aware of how to deal with such diverse individuals and I made friends with everyone on the trip.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 0-2 weeks |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
Going to Costa Rica with Dr. Armstrong was an eye opening experience and an amazing opportunity. I learned a whole different perspective about life, the U.S., Costa Rica, and about people in general. I never thought that I would learn so much beyond the culture of Costa Rica. I learned much more about being a culturally relevant teacher and how to utilize critical pedagogy. I had a wonderful experience and I definitely want to go back again! |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
Dr. Armstrong is an inspiring teacher! |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
The hotels were family owned and operated. All of the staff was extremely hospitable. |
| * Food: |
Everything was delicious! I can't seem to find or make Costa Rican food as good here in the U.S. I am missing my beans and rice! |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
I was not in the country long enough to feel fully integrated with the culture. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
We had a girl who had an ear infection on the trip. When things got bad we received help from the pharmacist promptly. |
| * Safety: |
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| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?
(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost) |
Our budget was about 30 dollars a day. Do not forget to include drinks at bus stops and etc. The costs were worth it because the food was great, but if I were to stay there a semester I would find a way to eat cheaper. |
| * Was housing included in your program cost? | No |
| * Was food included in your program cost? | No |
Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | No |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
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A Look Back
| * What did you like most about the program? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | Bring a watch! |
