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Building Confidence and Competence through International Training. Mary Andrews, Michigan State University Extension. Beliefs.
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Building Confidence and Competence through International Training Mary Andrews, Michigan State University Extension
Beliefs • “Extension professionals with access to information and appreciation for the nature of global issues can be a source of unique help to local clientele, and can be active partners in global development.” • Mary Andrews www.msue.msu.edu/intext
International Extension Training Program • Intense professional development experience • Groups of 12-15 agents and specialists • Two-year commitment of in-service time • Includes international travel • Financed by MSUE and Counties
I can’t believe how much I learned during our first session… • Even if we never traveled together, this training is invaluable. • Getting updated on global issues is important for all agents. • I already value my involvement with IETP Jim Wiesing, Grand Travese Co.
Planning for outreach • Upon return from intn’l travels, the group debriefs and plans for educational programming in MI. • Outreach happens before, during and long after IETP Group XII, January 2002
Participation in existing or designed study tours (study abroad, exchanges, professional meetings). Add-on’s to international projects Serving as chaperones to travelers and exchanges. Involving Others: Study Tours ESP Study tour, SE Asia, 2002
The study tour reminded me of all the great interactions during IETP… • IETP has always been with me…my travels to SE Asia reinforced those lessons. • I feel better able to talk about the global food system now…I have first-hand experience. Jan Seitz, Jackson Co.
Encouragement for staff to take international assignments… • USDA opportunities (Ukraine, Armenia, Bulgaria, Russia, Ghana, Guatemala) • ACDI-VOCA and other citizen volunteer programs • Service clubs/Partner projects (Rotary) • Self designed opportunities (New Zealand, Poland, Ireland)
Contributing to projects/exchanges • Irish Rural Development Exchange • South Africa support: Johannesburg, U. of the North, Zimbabwe • Extension training: Latvia, India Arlen Leholm & Mary Andrews, India 2002
I am a different person because of my international work… I can empathize with people of other countries and cultures. I am critical of our press and government. I wish more people would travel and learn about the world. Roberta Dow, Grand Traverse Co.
Hosting: An opportunity for all… Various Delegations International Visitors International Students Youth Exchanges Business Trainees Indian Students, Isabella Co.
Leadership Development…JuliePioch, Van Buran Co • The IETP program gave me a better understanding of myself and my leadership abilities. • Coping with stress & the unfamiliar • Testing one’s limits of patience, stamina, communications • Realizing the global connections • Appreciating differences • The travel experience provided opportunity to analyze Extension systems…and approaches.
Maximizing Citizen International Exposure… • Creating opportunities for exposure to international people, ideas, concerns. • Involving local leaders in hosting/educating guests. • Creating linkages from local to global. • Modeling “global citizenship” • Reinforcing international interests of citizens.
Lessons Learned…International Exposure • Important for staff credibility and confidence. • Important source of ideas, comparisons, examples. • Important source of sensitivities and perspectives.
Lessons Learned…Training • International exposure is not enough • Staff need guidance & interaction to create messages/programs • Staff want to see examples of what others are doing in domestic education • Need to reinforce being “proactive” and “responsive”—taking risks, speaking out.
Lessons Learned…Programming • International or global education is public affairs education—no right/wrong • An educator’s role is to expand awareness, facilitate discussion, encourage learning. • People learn best from interaction and involvement—create opportunities. • Make this part of everyday life—personal and professional.
Acknowledgements… • Group XII, IETP • Past IETP participants • MSUE