Megan Ivey Beard (Handong Global University, Korea)
Hannah Choi (Handong Global University, Korea)
Gyeol Kim (Handong Global University, Korea)
Yena Lee (Handong Global University, Korea)
Yoshiya Watanabe (Handong Global University, Korea)
Abstract
The topography of Korea’s social landscape has shifted significantly in the 21st century, now prominently featuring overseas Korean returnees, multicultural families, and international students. Concurrently, alternative and international schools have emerged as viable alternatives to mainstream education institutions, especially those using English-medium instruction. Within this globalizing–and nationalizing–space, preservice English teachers would benefit from field experiences that facilitate cross-cultural interaction, especially with language learners who do not share their L1.
In 2024, Handong Global University provided such an opportunity to engage in hands-on cross-cultural learning; through a grant-funded course, nine students positioned themselves as learners of the Japanese language and culture and engaged in supervised practice English language teaching. This moderated panel will highlight the lived experience of four of these students as they share their stories of applied learning, collaboration, and personal challenge and growth. Questions from the audience will be welcomed at the conclusion of the prepared panel discussion.
Student Showcase: Panel (In Person; 50 minutes)
Teacher Education / Professional Development
Primarily of interest to teachers of university students
About the Presenters
Megan Ivey Beard has lived in Northeast Asia since 2008, focusing much of her time on university teaching. She currently teaches TESOL courses at Taylor University and Handong Global University. Megan’s superpower is a high tolerance for boring, and she loves having the freedom to do the same thing every day, starting with robust cups of coffee and Jeju green tea.
Hannah Choi is a senior at Handong Global University majoring in life science and English. She has lived most of her life abroad, interacting with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. This experience has given her the ability to connect and immerse herself with others, and she loves going on adventures and making friends all over the world.
Gyeol Kim is a senior at Handong Global University majoring in mass communication and English; he just started taking TESOL classes. He has never lived in one place for more than four years straight, and some experiences overseas have made him interested in different languages. He would not hesitate to take on extra responsibilities if that makes others' work less tiring.
Yena Lee is a junior at Handong Global University, majoring in visual design and English while also participating in the Teaching Education Program (TEP). She has a cheerful personality and is known for her expressive reactions. She gets along well with everyone. Yena’s superpower is her skill at politely declining requests without offending others.
Yoshiya Watanabe is a senior at Handong Global University from Japan, studying English and Christian education; he will participate in the Teaching Education Program (TEP). He enjoys teaching and helping others as an interpreter. His superpower is finding excellent food in out of the way places, but he has such high standards for ramen that nothing outside his hometown can measure up.
