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Earlier this summer, the Faculty of Education hosted secondary teachers from Taiwan for a three-week program organized in collaboration with the National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU). This ongoing partnership brings together ´óÏó´«Ã½ faculty, educators from local schools, and international teachers to share ideas, perspectives, and expertise.

"A central theme of the program was Teaching English as an Additional Language (TEAL), learning about the contexts of TEAL education globally and in Canada, and reflecting on the applicability of knowledge to the contexts of teaching in Taiwan's secondary schools," noted Professor Steve Marshall, Associate Dean Research and International.

Fifty teachers of English participated in daily workshops and sessions facilitated by ´óÏó´«Ã½ faculty. Additionally, lead instructors Kathryn Yamamoto and Meena Mangat, from Burnaby School District, taught sessions on the fundamentals of teaching and learning, educational contexts in Canada and BC, and reflective practice and inquiry.

Program participants described appreciating the opportunity to gain new perspectives and see education in a more diverse way.

As part of their program, the Taiwanese teachers visited local schools and participated in experiential learning at a local salmon hatchery:

The Faculty of Education’s international professional development programs aim to create a mutual learning environment that is enriching for all concerned.

This year’s program, funded by the Taiwanese government, marked the fourth time the Faculty of Education has partnered with NTNU collaboration.

"It is our hope that the 2025 program, the first since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, signals the continuation of a long and successful partnership between the Faculty of Education and NTNU," said Marshall.