Virtual Exchange in Teacher Preparation: Identifying and Disrupting Dangerous Narratives about the Middle East and North Africa Region

Authors

  • Jennice McCafferty-Wright Missouri State University
  • Mya M. Kemper Summit Intermediate School, Nixa Public School District

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.36366/frontiers.v36i2.932

Keywords:

American Midwest, contact hypothesis, MENA region, teacher preparation, virtual exchange

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of virtual exchange on disrupting dangerous narratives about the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region among pre-service elementary teachers in the Midwestern region of the United States. The virtual exchange program provided direct interaction with teacher candidates in Morocco. Analysis of pre- and post-exchange memos revealed a significant shift from negative narratives to positive, generalized perceptions of the MENA region. While the shift towards positive generalizations represents progress, it also emphasizes the need for nuanced understanding and ongoing engagement. After participating in the exchange, pre-service teachers also communicated a strong desire to teach about the world and its people. This study highlights the possibilities of virtual exchange as a tool for preparing future educators who have been influenced by post-9/11 educational and media narratives. It advocates for the integration of virtual exchange as a mainstream approach to foster teaching for global understanding among teacher candidates.

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Author Biographies

Jennice McCafferty-Wright, Missouri State University

Jennice McCafferty-Wright is an Associate Professor in the College of Education at Missouri State University where she is the Dean’s Fellow for Global Education. Her commitments include learning from and with teachers working in public diplomacy initiatives, associations, and NGOs. She currently coordinates Missouri State University’s Global Education Lab and a virtual exchange for new and future teachers. She holds a PhD in Learning, Teaching, and Curriculum from the University of Missouri.

Mya M. Kemper, Summit Intermediate School, Nixa Public School District

Mya Kemper is a fifth-grade math, science, and social studies teacher at Summit Intermediate School in the Nixa Public School District. She holds a Masters in Elementary Education with a certificate in Environmental STEM from the College of Education at Missouri State University (MSU). During her time at MSU, she completed research on the impact of virtual exchange on the narratives held by teacher candidates, and she served as the President of Bears Teach Elementary.

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Published

2024-08-01

How to Cite

McCafferty-Wright, J., & Kemper, M. M. (2024). Virtual Exchange in Teacher Preparation: Identifying and Disrupting Dangerous Narratives about the Middle East and North Africa Region. Frontiers: The Interdisciplinary Journal of Study Abroad, 36(2), 91–107. https://doi.org/10.36366/frontiers.v36i2.932

Issue

Vol. 36 No. 2 (2024): Special Issue on Intercultural Development in Teacher Education: Sustaining Momentum for Study Abroad and Virtual Exchange Innovation

Section

Research Articles

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Copyright (c) 2024 Jennice McCafferty-Wright, Mya M. Kemper

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