2020 International Conference on the Development and Assessment of Intercultural Competence

Symposium

English

Curriculum design and instruction

This symposium presents three concrete curricular initiatives that integrate the teaching of culture and sustainability-related issues in a global context. It discusses models for interdisciplinary collaborations through which universities may foment intercultural competence and the skills necessary for students to understand global problems in their multiple dimensions.

Paper 1: Sustainability Challenges in Latin America, Teresa Giménez (University of Pennsylvania)

This paper illustrates new ways to achieve intercultural competence goals through the integration of knowledge and problem-based learning that explores the understanding of culture within the framework of sustainable development challenges in Latin America. The paper provides two case studies of unsustainable development that are threatening specific areas of Latin American biodiversity and cultural heritage.

Paper 2: Coffee, Culture, and Sustainability in Costa Rica, Beatriz Urraca (Widener University)

This paper outlines the pedagogical and curricular ramifications of a project that links problem-based experiential learning, an intercultural exchange, and sustainable development initiatives in Costa Rica. Students examine the biological, environmental, and cultural dimensions of coffee, integrating scientific knowledge with cultural practices associated with coffee in Central America.

Paper 3: Learning to Be Green in a Transnational Context, Colleen Ebacher (Towson University)

This paper presents the design, management, assessment and pedagogical insights of an international reciprocal study abroad program tailored to low-income and minority students.The goal of this Peru/USA program was to promote cross-cultural learning, intercultural competence and civic responsibility through environmental action. Results demonstrate far-reaching impacts for global cooperation.