Transforming educational practices: Cultural learning for short-term sojourners

Abstract

The incorporation of anthropological methods in tertiary educational programs for study abroad students’ cultural learning has shown promising results for cultivating an in-depth appreciation and knowledge of the local culture, intercultural competence, critical thinking, and reflexivity. However, there are fewer studies that investigate short-term programs and consider how visual anthropological methods can contribute to the learning of culture. This study explores the learning trajectories and personal growth of a group of Singaporean university undergraduates during an intensive six-week summer field school. Results show that visual anthropological methods can be successfully applied for the learning of culture, development of reflexivity, critical thinking and intercultural competence even within a short span of time. The paper concludes with implications and suggestions for pedagogy and program implementation.