Pedagogical Opportunities to Foster Interaction and Deep Understanding Between International and Domestic University Students

Abstract

Diverse friendships established in college can significantly impact students' lives and affect cognitive development, learning, retention, and college success. The encouragement of meaningful interaction through curriculum design and teaching practices as part of internationalization efforts can positively impact the campus and social structure of society. Opportunity exists within institutions of higher education to foster reflexivity and interaction in classrooms composed of individuals from around the world. The variety of experiences can provide a foundation for a trans-formative educational experience. This context may be a key component to reducing prejudice because perceptions and behavior result from enculturation. The author describes data collected over a five-year period from a 16-week undergraduate mixed nationality Anthropology course that attempts to hone skills in reflexivity and global awareness. The results exemplify teaching practices and curriculum design for internationalization within the classroom and outcomes indicate significant lifelong learning for students.