IPD Hosts Faculty from China's Guangdong University

Omaha – UNO welcomed fourteen English professors from Guangdong University of Education (GUE) in Guangdong, China this Summer for a faculty development program, led by the International Professional Development (IPD) program in International Programs. The program is designed to enhance the professors' English teaching skills through interactive seminars on best practices in English language instruction. Capstone teaching presentations allowed participants to apply what they learned to a lesson they would teach their English language learners back home in China.

“The diversified teaching methods really introduced me to much and they are certain to be valuable and helpful in my teaching career," shared one of the graduates of the program.

Participants also learned about many of the programs and resources that make UNO unique while they are here, including the Writing Center, Speech Center, Criss Library, and Barbara Weitz Community Engagement Center. These concepts are often taken home with IPD graduates and applied at their home institutions.

Cultural experiences are always an integral part of all of UNO's programs for international participants. Through visits to the Henry Doorly Zoo, Old Market, Boys Town, and other local sites, they gain a greater understanding of American culture and values, while also enjoying the many great attractions that make Omaha special.

This is the first collaboration between UNO and GUE, but it is just the beginning for the partnership.

“This has been a dynamic and valuable collaboration thus far. I hope to continue to explore possible areas of collaboration between our two institutions to look for other ways to connect to grown our relationship," explained Dr. Sarah Osborn, Director of Intensive Language and International Professional Development.

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