Susan Atkins
Marsal Family School of Education
The EDU 215 course on Education, which included a travel abroad component to Ecuador, was an outstanding success that left a lasting impression on both students and faculty. Twenty-one students from various disciplines discovered this unique course and eagerly applied through MCompass. After being accepted, they participated in four on-campus meetings before embarking on an enriching journey to Ecuador over spring break.
In Ecuador, they partnered with the Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), whose support was nothing short of exceptional. The USFQ team provided a well-organized program complete with excellent logistics, accommodations, and engaging faculty lectures. Their knowledgeable guide, who accompanied the students on various field excursions, added depth to the experience. A real highlight of the trip was visiting Saminay Legado, an indigenous school nestled in the Andes, where students gained invaluable insights into local educational practices.
Remarkably, the trip was free from any major issues related to travel, transportation, health, or safety. The group dynamic was incredibly positive, fostering both camaraderie and collaboration among participants. This experience proved to be transformative, inspiring students to reconsider their perspectives on education and teaching. One potential Marsal student was so motivated that they scheduled an appointment with Sarah Powers from Ecuador itself!
Upon returning, the impact of the course was evident. Eighteen students completed program surveys, and fifteen expressed a keen interest in taking additional courses in Education. For those already on the path to becoming teachers, like the TEPA students, the experience solidified their plans and inspired them to pursue adding English Language Development (ELD) with certification.
Overall, the course proved to be an academic endeavor and a journey of personal and professional growth for all involved, sparking new interests and solidifying career aspirations.
On the topic of inspiration to pursue a career in education…
Bella DiFiori, a LSA junior who has now decided to study education: “This trip has made me very excited to be an educator in the future! I got so much valuable knowledge on how classrooms work in different settings. I will definitely hold onto the community education that was present at Saminay School. I also think the instructors did a great job in class and in the country positioning us to think as teachers and I learned a lot on this trip. There were a lot of moments that I would like to replicate in my own classroom.”
On the topic of recognition of the power of education…
Akhila Mullapudi, senior in Public Policy: “I was not planning on teaching or working directly in education but this course helped me realize how intersectional education is and the impact beyond what I originally thought. It made me realize how important cultural competency and community-based learning is inside and outside of classrooms. I also loved practicing intention and reflection through the final projects and journals.”
Taylen Hemingway, TEPA student: “Through EDUC 215 and my study abroad experience in Ecuador, I gained a deeper understanding of how education extends far beyond the walls of a traditional classroom. In Ecuador, I saw firsthand how cultural values, history, and community practices shape learning. At the Universidad San Francisco de Quito, I learned about Ecuador’s educational history, which deepened my awareness of how social and political factors influence schools. Additionally, visiting both private schools in Quito and Indigenous schools in Urcusiqui revealed the importance of adapting teaching methods to meet the needs of diverse learners. Working directly with students and educators emphasized the value of building relationships and creating spaces where students feel seen and supported. Moving forward, I will hold onto the idea that effective teaching requires both academic knowledge and a genuine commitment to understanding students’ cultural backgrounds and lived experiences.”
On the topic of theory into practice…
Lily Carlson, incoming ELMAC student: “This experience gave me insight into the practice of the theory I learn in my education classes. I have examples and models of how to implement the culturally responsive and student-led learning I have only discussed in theory.”
On the topic of alternative pedagogies…
Lorena Guerrero, a freshman in the Residential College: “In Ecuador, I witnessed the power of intentional teaching in Indigenous education and how educators purposefully integrated Indigenous culture into their teaching. Additionally, experiential learning played an important role, as lessons often extended beyond the classroom, emphasizing traditional ecological knowledge and storytelling. I saw the positive impact of this teaching on the students as they were eager to learn at school.”
On the topic of the overall quality of the experience…
Mishal Charania, LSA senior: “This was one of the most formative experiences I have ever had in my life. As someone who is not an education major, I am so grateful that this experience was open to all and accessible because I feel like I am a better person, educator, and professional because of this experience. I would recommend this experience to anyone interested in engaging in learning in a new way while having an immensely culturally rich experience.”
Maekayla Dimatulac, LSA sophomore: “This experience was both culturally enriching and simply so much fun because it provided meaningful engagement with traditions, perspectives, and practices that deepened my understanding of a particular culture. At the same time, it was fun because it allowed for hands-on participation, connection with others, and an immersive learning experience.”
