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Building Confidence and Competence through International Training

This program highlights the transformative impact of the International Extension Training Program (IETP) on professionals at Michigan State University Extension. By providing immersive experiences in global contexts, IETP empowers agents and specialists to navigate complex global issues, enhance local outreach, and foster international partnerships. Participants, through shared learning and travel, gain confidence, broaden perspectives, and refine leadership skills, ultimately enriching their work and communities. Insights gleaned from international exposure equip professionals to better serve their local clientele while embracing diverse cultures.

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Building Confidence and Competence through International Training

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  1. Building Confidence and Competence through International Training Mary Andrews, Michigan State University Extension

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. Campus Training: Faculty

  5. Campus Training: Interaction

  6. 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.

  7. Field Training: Exploration

  8. Field Training: Sharing

  9. 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

  10. Communicating

  11. 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

  12. 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.

  13. 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)

  14. 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

  15. 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.

  16. Hosting: An opportunity for all… Various Delegations International Visitors International Students Youth Exchanges Business Trainees Indian Students, Isabella Co.

  17. 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.

  18. 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.

  19. Lessons Learned…International Exposure • Important for staff credibility and confidence. • Important source of ideas, comparisons, examples. • Important source of sensitivities and perspectives.

  20. 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.

  21. 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.

  22. Acknowledgements… • Group XII, IETP • Past IETP participants • MSUE

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