September 14, 2009
Twelve graduate students, including eight students from
the St. John’s School of Education and four early childhood
educators recently returned from a fulfilling 10 day study abroad
program in Brescia Italy. Students toured the country’s ancient,
medieval museums and art exhibits, examined the importance of the
Agazzi, Montessori and Reggio approach to preschool education,
traveled to Venice and rode their first gondola, analyzed the use
of light, color and technology in Reggio, and savored the rich
cultural and historic splendor of Italy!
An International Learning
Encounter
St. John’s Early Childhood Education (ECE) graduate students shared
their thoughts on this magnificent country and its dynamic history
during their European voyage:
“This trip was a life-changing experience that has taught me to
become a better educator and opened my eyes to the world of
education,” notes Amanda Franquinha. “I made relationships with so
many amazing people, I will never forget this trip to
Brescia.”
Pre-school Educator Erin O’Keefe reports: “The Italy study
abroad program offered me insight that I may not have gained in the
U.S. I will incorporate many of the ideas in my classroom and
make the most of the information I have acquired during my trip to
Italy. The curriculum offered a new learning focus on a daily basis
that enabled us to reflect on various teaching methods.”
Vydaisha Singh has rekindled a new sense of spirit and passion for
teaching. “After speaking with other teachers, administrators and
specialists to understand their perspective on ECE in the classroom
allowed me to embrace the unity of the field.”
“Graduate student and early childhood educator adds “This trip to
Italy provided a unique atmosphere for Early Childhood students. I
am grateful to Dr. Smita Guha and Dr. Pancini for the opportunity.
I have been permanently changed as a teacher and would not trade
this time for anything in the world.
A Cultural Focus
Now in its fourth year, this three-credit summer abroad program
correlates the artful masterpieces of the Renaissance era at
Italy’s prominent Arte Spirituale Museum and the Rezzato Center for
the Arts to the well-known Italian teaching methods. Participants
attended educational sites, seminars and workshops, observed
teachers in activities with three to six- years olds and met with
fellow educators and administrators.
“The travel abroad program was a wonderful learning experience for
all of us,” states Dr. Smita Guha, Associate Professor in the
School of Education. “This program helps graduate students broaden
their horizons and provide a deeper understanding of pre-school
education in Italy. Each year we include additional content and
educational options to the existing module.”
Established by a benefactor, the graduate travel abroad program is
available to all professionals in the field of Early Childhood
Education. The School of Education offers twelve full scholarships
to those who qualify. To request an application contact:
Italy Program/Graduate
Admissions
The School of Education
(718) 990-2664
(718) 990-5644
(718) 990-2304
graded@stjohns.edu
or
Smita Guha, Ph.D
Associate Professor
School of Education
(718) 990- 25454
guhas@stjohns.edu