Culturally Responsive Pedagogy Amid the Internationalization of Teacher Education: Self-Study of Teaching International Teacher Candidates in U.S. Teacher Education Program

The internationalization of teacher education has impacted the curriculum and contexts of teacher preparation in the United States (U.S.). While an increasing number of studies explore the effectiveness of international practicums where teacher candidates from U.S.-based teacher education programs immerse into different cultural and linguistic experiences, studies investigating teacher educators’ perspectives in the context of preparing international teacher candidates (ITCs) in U.S.-based teacher education programs are scarce. This self-study research explores how a teacher educator negotiates and responds to the internationalization of teacher education, particularly to the learning-to-teach process of ITCs. This qualitative research uses a self-study methodology to explore challenges and culturally responsive practices while working with ITCs’ diverse backgrounds, knowledge, and motivation. Data were collected over three academic semesters, including memos and notes, teaching journals, and lesson plans. Findings emphasize the importance of shifting perspectives and practices to meet ITCs’ academic, cultural, and linguistic needs. Implications for self-study research and teacher education programs promoting the internationalization of teacher education are discussed.